3 Teams That Might Target William O’Rourke In IPL 2025 Mega Auction

William O’Rourke In IPL 2025 Mega Auction [Source: @ABsay_ek/X.com]

IPL 2025 mega auction is set to happen in early December. Before this big event, franchises will release their list of retained players, following new IPL retention rules and regulations. Every team will aim to strengthen their squad through smart auction picks. Some players could attract hefty bids, thanks to their recent performances on the international stage. 

One such player is William O’Rourke, the Kiwi pacer who recently shone in the IND vs NZ 1st Test at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. O’Rourke's four-wicket haul in the first innings bundled India out for just 46 runs, and his three wickets in the second innings helped New Zealand clinch a memorable win after 36 years on Indian soil. His sharp bowling and consistent accuracy make him an exciting prospect in the IPL auction. Here's a look at three teams that might target him.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)  

RCB had a rollercoaster IPL 2024 season. Despite struggling in the early phase, they managed to reach the knockout stage, only to be eliminated by the Rajasthan Royals. RCB has often boasted a powerful batting lineup, but their lack of quality bowlers has held them back from winning the coveted IPL title.

The franchise needs a strike bowler to complement Mohammed Siraj, who is likely to be retained. William O’Rourke’s accurate and wicket-taking abilities could help RCB build a dangerous bowling partnership with Siraj. O’Rourke’s presence can also solve RCB’s bowling woes by providing the cutting edge they have lacked in recent seasons.

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Mumbai Indians (MI) 

Mumbai Indians, despite their strong batting unit, finished last in IPL 2024. The bowling department, particularly the overseas bowlers, was a weak link. MI relied heavily on Jasprit Bumrah, with bowlers like Coetzee and Thushara failing to perform.

Adding William O’Rourke to the squad could bolster their bowling attack. His pace and ability to extract bounce from pitches like Wankhede will complement Bumrah perfectly. With O’Rourke, MI can share the bowling burden and reduce the over-reliance on Bumrah, providing the team with much-needed balance.

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)  

Lucknow Super Giants missed the playoffs last season and are eager to strengthen their bowling lineup. LSG plays several games at home (Ekana Stadium), where two types of pitches are used—one favoring spinners and the other suitable for pacers. O’Rourke could be lethal on the latter surface.

His ability to hit the right length consistently and maintain decent pace makes him an ideal fit for LSG. With his smooth bowling action and knack for picking up key wickets, O’Rourke could be a game-changer for LSG and help them make a deeper run in IPL 2025.

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