IPL 2021: 3 Teams that can pick Mushfiqur Rahim in the auction

The Indian Premier League is well known for the platform it provides to various cricketers. Initially, the cricketing boards were reluctant to send their cricketers to this lucrative league. The main reason for this was they were afraid that it might hamper the performance of the national side. But, IPL became one of the most important tournaments over time!

The IPL not only provides platforms for the youngsters. Apart from that, it gives chances to the experienced ones to prove themselves that they too can survive in this format. To be frank, IPL changes the lives of many unknown faces. The mega-contract can change your career and provide you the chance to share the dressing room with the legends of the game. 

Well, it is 2021 and we have a mini-auction ahead of us. After a magnificent season in 2020, the franchises are looking forward to making few changes in their playing eleven. This year, the vice-captain of the Bangladesh national team has thrown his hat in the auction. Well, let us have a look at the 3 teams that can pick Mushfiqur Rahim in the IPL Auction:

3. Punjab Kings

Do not get surprised by the name! The Kings XI Punjab have renamed themselves as the Punjab Kings. Well, they have to apply every trick of the permutations and combinations book to ensure that they do not choke during the initial stage of the tournament. Last year, they almost went into the playoffs but the losses during the early stage of the tournament ensured that they fell short. 

The Kings had a good IPL season though! After a horrible start, they made a terrific comeback in the tournament. While KL Rahul and Chris Gayle handled the batting order, the bowling unit was successful in their attempt to choke the opposition during the middle overs. An out-of-form Maxwell never helped the team’s cause and hence, there was a batting collapse now and then. To avoid another blunder, they can look forward to including Mushfiqur Rahim in their squad.

Mushfiqur Rahim has not performed exceptionally well in the shortest format of the game. However, with the tournament being conducted in India, the Kings should look forward to including him in their squad. With the highest score of 72, he can tee off and rotate the strike at the same time. Therefore, the Punjab Kings should look forward to including him in their playing eleven!

2. Royal Challengers Bangalore

The Royal Challengers had a relatively better IPL season in 2020. Last year, they managed to sneak into the playoffs. However, a crushing defeat by the hands of the Sunrisers meant that Virat Kohli still does not have an IPL trophy in his cabinet. Well, they have decided to release some big names in this auction.

Last year, the Bangalore-based franchise had to drop Josh Philippe to stabilize their batting order. This meant that De Villiers had to keep the wickets and they had to sacrifice their best outfielder to guard the wickets. This looks like a bit ugly situation for the Challengers! Therefore, they should look forward to including an experienced keeper in their squad. 

Currently, the best name available for them is Mushfiqur Rahim. The Bangladeshi keeper is an excellent player of spin and can play the role of the anchor during a batting collapse. This means that there will be a relatively lesser burden on Virat Kohli. Therefore, the Royal Challengers should look forward to including Rahim in their squad. 

1. Rajasthan Royals

According to the points table, the Rajasthan Royals were the worst team last year. Even after having star-studded overseas players, they failed to make it to the playoffs. The only bright prospect for the Royals last year was the performance of Rahul Tewatia. Well, they have a lot to do to cover up their poor season in 2020. 

After releasing Smith, there is a vacancy for an overseas player in their squad. And, it will be better for them to include a keeper. Because Jos Buttler and Sanju Samson are better fielders and they should guard the boundaries. It will help the team to save a few runs which might decide their fate in the upcoming season. Therefore, it is now time to include an experienced keeper in their squad.

As the IPL 2021 will be held in India, they should find a keeper who can play well in spinning conditions. With an experience of 86 T20Is, Mushfiqur Rahim is the best option available for the Royals. Last year, they had multiple batting collapses and Rahim is well known for his ability to hold one end. Therefore Rajasthan Royals can opt for Mushfiqur Rahim in the upcoming auction.