Chennai Super Kings: The starting lineup of the Chennai Super Kings, the defending champions, is already set, with the exception of retired Ambati Rayudu. However, CSK, with its significant budget, may disrupt the plans of a few other franchises. The team is eager to have reliable replacements for injury-prone Matheesha Pathirana and Moeen Ali. Additionally, they are on a quest to find a finisher for when ‘Thala’ Dhoni retires. Could Shahrukh Khan be reaching out?
Mumbai Indians: have been the subject of discussion, particularly since achieving a significant boost in team balance with Hardik Pandya’s return. However, they will face budget constraints as they seek to acquire a high-quality fast bowler to alleviate the pressure on Jasprit Bumrah.
Kolkata Knight Riders: with the release of 12 players, including six fast bowlers, might emerge as the most active participant in the auction. Alongside reinforcing the pace attack, the franchise aims to secure a dependable backup wicketkeeper for Rahmanullah Gurbaz.
Rajasthan Royals: led by Kumar Sangakkara and their think-tank, are targeting two key acquisitions: a dependable middle-order batsman and a versatile all-rounder. Considering a possible overseas purchase, the team faces intrigue in selecting candidates within their budget constraints.
Sunrisers Hyderabad: despite concluding at the bottom of the points table in the previous season, has retained its core team. The focus is now on acquiring a dynamic opening batsman and a high-quality fast bowler to complement the experience of veteran Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Gujarat Titans: Following Hardik’s departure, it’s a given that the 2022 champion will target a big-ticket all-rounder to maintain the balance of the team, . Who will it be? In fact, the ball will be in Titans’ court, considering it has the largest purse available. Besides the all-rounder, it will also be on the hunt for an overseas pacer to partner Mohammed Shami.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: needs to fill a minimum of three positions, including a finisher (preferably an all-rounder), a fast bowler, and a spinner. It is imperative that at least one of these acquisitions is an overseas player. The question remains whether the team can make the right moves, particularly during the auction this time around.
Delhi Capitals: Despite the anticipated return of Rishabh Pant to the playing field, Delhi Capitals are in need of a robust backup as a finisher, given the loss of confidence in Rovman Powell. Additionally, the team will seek a ready-made substitute for Prithvi Shaw and a left-arm pacer to fill the void left by Khaleel Ahmed.
Lucknow Super Giants: are poised to have Mark Wood available for the entire IPL season. However, if England decides to withdraw him midway for T20 World Cup preparations, the new management led by Justin Langer will be on the lookout for a robust backup. Despite entering the auction with the smallest purse, the question remains whether the team can secure viable alternatives.
Punjab Kings: top priority is filling the vacancy left by the release of Shahrukh Khan. The question is whether they will opt for an Indian all-rounder capable of effectively finishing games and then build the squad with quality backups from the domestic circuit.
