IPL 2023 mini-auction: Five surprise packages to watch out for
Joshua Little in action [Source: Twitter]
To the delight of cricket fans across the globe, the much-anticipated IPL 2023 mini-auction is all set to take place on Friday in Kochi.
With plenty of exciting names set to go under the hammer, cut-throat competition is expected between the ten concerned franchises.
However, there are some underrated players who might set the stage on fire. So, let's analyse and list five such names, who will likely emerge as the surprising picks in the mini-auction.
5. Vidhwath Kaverappa
Kaverappa in action [Source: Twitter]
The lanky seamer grabbed a million eyeballs, performing admirably in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2022. He emerged as Karnataka's most lethal bowling weapon, scalping 18 wickets in just eight games at a superb economy of 6.36.
Known as a skilful operator of the new ball, Kaverappa can also be handy at the death, being capable of nailing yorkers to perfection. Considering the scarcity of quality Indian seamers in the IPL, we shouldn't be surprised if he earns a million-dollar contract in the mini-auction.
4. Michael Bracewell
The hard-hitting New Zealand all-rounder rose to fame with a blistering 25-ball 61*-run knock against Scotland in July. He is someone who can hit a long ball and also roll his arms for some useful overs.
Additionally, he belongs to the rare breed of off-spinners who can keep the right-handed batters quiet. So, considering the demand for such multi-dimensional players, we expect a bidding war between several franchises for Bracewell in the mini-auction.
3. Lorcan Tucker
The Irish keeper-batter's rise in T20 cricket has been phenomenal, to say the least. After being promoted to the top order, Tucker has played some sensational knocks, establishing himself as an integral member of the Irish T20I side.
Importantly, the swashbuckling right-handed batter amassed 204 runs, including a counterattacking 48-ball 71* against the mighty Australia, in the T20 World Cup. As he can be flexible in the batting order and offers keeping option as well, Tucker can be a smart low-budget pick for the IPL teams.
2. Karthik Meiyappan
Karthik Meiyappan was UAE's trump card in the T20 WC [Source: Twitter]
The leg spinner from the United Arab Emirates became a household name after he claimed a sensational hat-trick against a strong Sri Lankan outfit in the T20 World Cup.
Overall, the 22-year-old has scalped 22 wickets in 14 T20Is at a stunning economy of 6.98. Known for his guile and accuracy, Meiyappan will surely emerge as a hot pick in the IPL mini-auction.
So, don't be surprised if big teams like CSK or MI bag his services for the upcoming edition of the tournament.
1.Joshua Little
The talented left-arm seamer from Ireland has had a stellar 2022, claiming 39 wickets in 26 T20Is at an outstanding strike rate of 14.97.
He is a fantastic operator of the new ball and can be handy in the death overs as well. More importantly, he brings the left-arm angle into the table and will, therefore, be a terrific low-budget pick for any franchise.
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