5 Players who were steal deals for their teams in IPL 2017 Auction

The IPL 2017 Auctions took place in Bangalore where more than 351 cricketers went under the hammer. A total of 66 cricketers were sold to respective franchises including 3 cricketers from Associate nations. England’s Ben Stokes became the costliest player of the Auction for the tenth edition, as he was snapped up by Rising Pune Supergiants for a whopping INR 14.5 crore. Tymal Mills was picked by RCB after an intense bidding war for INR 12 crore.

While players like them stole the limelight pocketing huge amounts in the auction, many were awarded contracts ten times more than their base price. However, there were also players who surprisingly were bought at a fractional amount basically a steal for the teams. Less salary and more valuable players is what every franchise longs to have.

Let us take a look at five of the most promising players who turned out to be bargain buys in this year’s auction:-

1. Mohammad Nabi – 30 lakhs

Mohammad Nabi became the first ever player from Afghanistan to be picked for the Indian Premier League as Sun Risers Hyderabad bagged him at his base price of 30 lakhs. While he achieved so many feats in this auction, it was a surprise that not many franchisees rooted for him.

The efficient allrounder has honed his skills for Afghanistan at a consistent basis. His capability as a batsman and an off-spinner has proved quite beneficial for every team he has represented. This would be Nabi’s first appearance in the IPL. He has been part of the Bangladesh Premier League and the ongoing Pakistan Super League. His entrance into the cash-rich IPL is a reflection of Afghanistan’s steady growth in international cricket.

Also read- 5 Experienced players who remained unsold in the IPL 2017 auction

2. Jason Roy – 1 crore

Preceding the IPL auctions, there were talks regarding the possibility of Jason Roy being one the most expensive picks. The dashing English opener surprisingly went unsold in the first draw of auctions. He was brought back into the auctions where he was sold at his base price of 1 crore to the Gujarat Lions.

This is going to be the first time that Roy would be featuring in the Indian Premier League. With his fearless striking at the top order, the English opener can prove to be a sensational prospect for the Gujarat Lions. His clean striking makes him a difficult batsman to bowl to in the power play overs.

The Gujarat Lions would be pleased to have got him at such a low rate and would be expecting him to go all bonkers at the crease.

3. Asela Gunaratne – 30 lakhs

After a successful stint in the T20 International series against Australia, Asela Gunaratne’s knocks had perfect timing considering the IPL auctions were round the corner. The promising Sri Lankan youngster was bagged by Mumbai Indians at his base price of 30 lakhs.

There is no doubt that Mumbai’s newly appointed coach Mahela Jayawardene would’ve have given inputs regarding Gunaratne’s selection. Being a Sri Lankan, he would be well aware of his stylish batting techniques and his abilities to score big in crunch situations of the game.

Considering all these aspects, getting him at 30 lakhs was something to be glad of for the Mumbai Indians. While they already have Lindl Simmons in their ranks, Gunaratne could be really handy in case there’s any form or fitness problem given his prowess with the ball as well.

Also read- Best XI from the players sold in the IPL 2017 Auction

4. Pravin Tambe – 10 lakhs

Having shot to fame at the age of 41, Pravin Tambe has set a huge example as to why one should never give up on their dreams. Representing the Rajasthan Royals, he took the IPL by storm with his leg-spin bowling abilities.

In this year’s auction, Tambe was bought at his base price of 10 lakhs by the Sun Risers Hyderabad. Playing in India, spinners always have a major hold of wickets and with Tambe’s reputation, it was a bit surprising to see that he was not among the top priorities of the franchisees.

Though age and fitness have not been at his side, he can make a huge impact in the 24 balls he gets to show his mettle. So getting him at 10 lakhs was an absolute steal for the defending champions and the management would be hoping that Tambe’s entry bolsters their spin attack.

5. Nicholas Pooran – 30 lakhs

Having earmarked success at an early age, Nicholas Pooran first grabbed headlines in the Caribbean Premier League and also in the U19 World Cup. The youngster a supremely talented batsman can be a force to reckon with.

He was bought up by Mumbai Indians at his base price of INR 30 lakhs. While not many seemed to be relatively knowing the West Indian rookie, those who have seen him play knew that Mumbai Indians got a great deal.

Also a wicketkeeper, Pooran can be a subtle replacement once Jos Buttler is off to his national duties. The 21-year-old is another exciting prospect to watch out for.

Also check out- 6 Unknown players who grabbed a deal at IPL 2017 auction