The IPL 2024 retentions have stirred excitement among fans, with surprises like Hardik Pandya returning to Mumbai Indians and Cameron Green joining Royal Challengers Bangalore. The ODI World Cup 2023 showcased thrilling performances, heightening anticipation for the upcoming mini auctions on December 19 in Mumbai. With Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins entering the fray, an intense bidding war is expected, as highlighted by Ravichandran Ashwin, who believes these pacers will be on every team’s radar.
While there are prospects like Rachin Ravindra and Gerald Coetzee, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins emerge as the prime targets for teams in the upcoming auctions. Considering their likely participation in the upcoming Ashes and T20 World Cup, Ravichandran Ashwin speculates a high probability of Cummins and Starc withdrawing from the tournament based on their past histories, as mentioned on his YouTube channel.
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Starc’s last appearance in the IPL was with Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2015, while Cummins played his most recent match in 2022 for the Kolkata Knight Riders.
Ashwin anticipates that Mumbai Indians might target South African pacer Gerald Coetzee, who impressed with 20 wickets in 8 matches during the ODI World Cup 2023.
According to Ashwin, Coetzee is a perfect fit for Mumbai Indians, envisioning him in the iconic blue and gold jersey, delivering at the Wankhede Stadium. If Mumbai Indians fail to secure other options, Ashwin suggests Coetzee could be their primary choice, even ahead of Mitchell Starc.