Team-wise best and worst buys of all-time in IPL auction history

4. Rajasthan Royals: 

Best: Shane Watson

After not being auctioned out in the first leg of the 2008 IPL auction, Shane Watson found himself in the second leg. The all-rounder had already achieved a tag for being a World Cup winner but had a history of getting injured at the wrong time.

For any team, that would be a risk. However, Rajasthan was going to make the purchase, just to add the cutting edge to their line-up. Purchasing Shane Watson’s services was the best buy Rajasthan ever made. In his first season, he scored 472 runs and took 17 wickets.

His performance ensured Rajasthan that they were going to win the inaugural edition and Watson was named the man of the tournament. He has since played for two other franchises, but his most recalled performances were for his first franchise, Rajasthan Royals. 

Worst: Jaydev Unadkat

Jaydev Unadkat bowled his heart out during the 2017 IPL. He represented the now-defunct Rising Pune Supergiant and was the highest wicket-taker for the franchise with 24 wickets from 12 matches.

He had got an India call-up as well. With him going into the auction, everyone knew that the need of the hour was an Indian fast-bowler and to everyone, Unadkat was a hot pick.

After a serious bidding war, Royals secured Unadkat’s services for INR 11.5 crore, a purchase which they would go on to regret. He played 15 matches and picked up 11 wickets, at an average of 44.18 and an economy of 9.65.