5 BBL players who will expect to earn big bids in the IPL 2017 auction

The IPL 2017 auction is right around the corner which draws our attention to the players who will be expected to earn massive bids on the basis of their reputation or their performances. The Big Bash League (BBL) recently concluded with the Perth Scorchers emerging victorious in a hard-fought enthralling season of swashbuckling cricket action.

Several youngsters enthralled us with their dominant performances while several experienced campaigners sent out a message of intent with their mature performances. Let’s take a look at the 5 players who will be expected to fetch a buyer on the back of their consistent performances in the BBL-

1. Ben Dunk

The 29-year-old set the Big Bash League (BBL) on fire with his exciting performances for the Adelaide Strikers this season. His ability to smash the ball into the stands in any scenario makes him a valuable acquisition for any franchise.

His consistent performances for the Hobart Hurricanes in the third edition of the BBL earned him a 20 lakh bid from the Mumbai Indians in the 2014 season of the IPL. Dunk has scored 1340 runs in 63 T20 matches at an astonishing average of 22.33 which is mind-boggling.

The Aussie Palm Grove Hitter is a superb acquisition for a side like KXIP which is crying out for a reliable import who can get the scoreboard rolling.

2. Daniel Hughes

The 27-year-old from New South Wales stunned spectators with his excellent performances for the Sydney Sixers. His aggressive style of batting has earned him a lot of fans ever since he made his T20 debut against the Hobart Hurricanes on 26 December 2012.

The left-handed batsman has scored 331 runs in 19 T20 innings at an astounding batting average of 25.46 which indicates how remarkable he is. Hughes can be a boon for a side like the Rising Pune Supergiants who lack a smashing opener to partner with Ajinkya Rahane having already released Kevin Pietersen.

3. Luke Wright

The 31-year-old English all-rounder has been one of the most consistent T20 performers over the years. Wright has been a part of several T20 franchises like the Dhaka Gladiators, Quetta Gladiators, Melbourne Stars and Pune Warriors India which indicates his popularity.

Wright’s absence from the English national team in spite of his phenomenal performances has stunned English fans. He has acquired a lot of experience over the years after his stints around the world which make him an invaluable acquisition.

An all-rounder like him can be a bargain buy for a side like Rising Pune Supergiants which is crying out for an effective partner for Mitchell Marsh.

4. Michael Klinger

The 36-year-old Victoria born batsman is one of the most underrated gems currently in world cricket. Several fans deem players as unfit for T20 at a certain age but veterans like Michael Klinger and Brad Hogg have burst this myth with their unbelievable performances.

Klinger who is nicknamed “the Jewish Bradman” has been the highest run-getter in the Big Bash League over the years. His ravishing gameplay with a fine blend of maturity makes him a tough competitor for any bowler.

Klinger can surely be a vital addition for a side like the Delhi Daredevils which badly needs an experienced addition to the squad.

5. Mitchell Johnson

The 35-year-old Queensland-born bowler has earned a lot of praises plaudits over the years with his amazing performances for the national team. At the age of 17, legendary fast bowler Dennis Lillee hailed him as a “once-in-nine-lives prospect” which earned him a chance in the Australian cricket academy in Adelaide.

Johnson was a top performer for eventual champions Perth Scorchers with the ball in his debut campaign. His lethal match-winning performances will surely earn him a bid from the Kolkata Knight Riders who are desperately in need of an experienced campaigner.

Written by Arnab Mukherji