Gerald Coetzee joins MI for IPL 2024 [X.com]
In a significant development, ace South African speedster Gerald Coetzee has joined Mumbai Indians for INR 5 Crores ahead of the IPL 2024 season. The promising Proteas pacer attracted multiple bidders before being acquired by the five-time champions.
After Australian captain Pat Cummins became the most expensive player ever in IPL history, Coetzee went up for grabs in the ongoing mini-auction at the Coca Cola arena in Dubai.
Chennai Super Kings, who have Coetzee in their Jo'burg franchise in SA20, initiated the proceedings with an opening bid of INR 2 Crores.
A mini bidding war continued between Mumbai Indians and the Super Kings before the latter backed out at the 3.4 Cr mark. Lucknow Super Giants entered the race and went till INR 4.80 Crores before MI got the South African for 5 Crores.
Coetzee recently grabbed a million eyeballs through his scintillating bowling performances in the 2023 World Cup. In eight matches, the fast bowler scalped 20 wickets at an impressive strike rate of 19.05. He was expected to breach the 10-Cr mark; so, it could be an excellent deal to secure him for only 5 Crores.
Mumbai Indians' still have INR 12.75 Crores and will look to strengthen their core by utilising it in the auction.