NEW DELHI: The anticipation surrounding the IPL intensifies with the perennial speculation surrounding the retirement of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the iconic Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain. Despite his age of 42, Dhoni remains a stalwart figure in the cricketing world, and his enigmatic smile in response to retirement queries adds to the intrigue surrounding his future in the sport.
Meanwhile, the resurgence of Rishabh Pant after a life-threatening accident offers a heartwarming storyline. The Delhi Capitals wicketkeeper-batsman is poised to prove his mettle once again on the field, eager to showcase his trademark one-handed sixes and astute wicket-keeping skills.
In the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) camp, Virat Kohli's 16-year-long wait for a major title continues to be a focal point. With an unyielding passion for the game, Kohli's leadership and performance will be pivotal as RCB seek to clinch glory in the IPL.
The tournament also serves as a battleground for players eyeing a spot in the national squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. With aspirations soaring high, each player strives to make a compelling case for selection through stellar performances on the IPL stage.
Moreover, the IPL is not without its fair share of unexpected twists and turns. From sensational comebacks to the emergence of new stars, the tournament promises a rollercoaster ride for players and fans alike. As matches unfold, the relentless scrutiny of social media awaits, ready to crown heroes and critique the shortcomings of players.
Amidst the on-field action, franchises are primed for intense battles, with an eye on securing coveted spots in the playoffs. Teams like CSK and Mumbai Indians (MI) stand out as perennial favorites, boasting formidable squads and a rich history of success in the tournament.
1/7:Top big-money buys for IPL 2024
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2/7:Mitchell Starc's record deal
The Australian is the most expensive buy in IPL history after KKR shelled out Rs 24.75 crore on the fast bowler and handy lower-order slugger. Starc took 16 wickets in Australia's 50-over World Cup triumph, including three in the final against hosts India.PTI
3/7:Pat Cummins leads Sunrisers Hyderabad
Australia's World Cup-winning captain Pat Cummins will lead Sunrisers Hyderabad in his first stint as an IPL captain after they paid Rs 20.50 crore for the 30-year-old fast bowler.Getty Images
4/7:Daryl Mitchell's World Cup feats
The batting all-rounder was bought by the 2023 IPL champions for Rs 14 crore, a month after starring for New Zealand at the World Cup. Mitchell, 32, rose to prominence by scoring two World Cup centuries against India -- in the group stage and in the semi-final.PTI
5/7:Rovman Powell's explosive batting
The hard-hitting West Indian was the first player to be sold in the auction in Dubai as Rajasthan Royals bid Rs 7.4 crore. Powell scores at a strike rate of more than 144 in the middle order but his previous IPL record is moderate, with only 257 runs in two seasons.AP
6/7:Gerald Coetzee's pace attack
Gerald Coetzee's tearaway speed saw him finish as South Africa's leading bowler at the World Cup in India with 20 wickets in eight matches. The displays led five-time champions Mumbai Indians to pay Rs 5 crore for him to partner Jasprit Bumrah in a formidable pace attack.Getty Images
7/7:Harshal Patel's IPL journey
An IPL regular since debuting for RCB in 2012, the medium-pace raised eyebrows when he was the subject of a bidding war at the auction, ending up as the most expensive Indian player at Rs 11.75 crore. The 33-year-old took 32 of his 111 career IPL wickets in an outstanding 2021 campaign.TNNHowever, the IPL is renowned for its unpredictability, with underdog teams often defying odds to claim victory. The likes of Rajasthan Royals, with their blend of youthful exuberance and experienced campaigners, emerge as serious contenders in the quest for IPL glory.
As the IPL 2024 season kicks off, cricket enthusiasts brace themselves for an enthralling spectacle, where talent, determination, and passion collide on the grand stage of T20 cricket.
(With inputs from PTI)
