The IPL 2024 auction, featuring 333 registered players, concluded with 72 finding buyers among the ten participating franchises.
Held on December 19 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, this mini-auction set the stage for the upcoming tournament. Notably, Pat Cummins fetched an impressive INR 20.50 crore bid from Sunrisers Hyderabad, while Mitchell Starc secured an even higher bid of INR 24.75 crore from Kolkata Knight Riders, breaking the INR 20 Cr barrier in IPL auction history.
These acquisitions marked them as the two most expensive players ever sold. While other players received substantial bids, the reasons behind these purchases remain undisclosed by the franchises.
Nuwan Thushara – the Worst buy for MI in IPL 2024 Auction
In the IPL 2024 auction, Mumbai Indians aimed to bolster their bowling unit after releasing Chris Jordan, Jofra Archer, Jhye Richardson, Riley Meredith, and Mohd. Arshad Khan. With Sri Lankan coaches Mahela Jayawardena and Lasith Malinga influencing their strategy, MI aggressively pursued Lankan pacers.
Also read: What is the Worst Buy of Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2024 Auction?
Dilshan Madushanka, deserving of his INR 4.6 Cr bid, showcased excellence in the ICC World Cup 2023, including a fifer against India. On the contrary, the INR 4.8 Cr bid for Nuwan Thushara raised eyebrows among experts. Despite Thushara’s unique slingy action and yorker prowess, doubts arise about his chances in MI’s playing XI, given his limited experience in the IPL spotlight, posing a potential challenge to Mumbai Indians’ prospects.