IPL 2022: Five base-price signings that have been impressive

A team’s strategy to win the Indian Premier League title starts at their auction table, and hugely depends upon the players they purchase. The auction is a fun part of the IPL but it also tests a franchise’s decision-making. Every year the auction witnesses a war between teams as they fight hard to get a player, but at the same time, there have been instances where players purchased at their base price turned out as one of the finest on the team.

5 players who were picked at a base price in the auction but have impressed with their performances in IPL 2022

Bhanuka Rajapaksa

The Sri Lankan batter was purchased by the Punjab Kings for a price of INR 50 lakh after his heroics at the 2021 T20 World Cup. Rajapaksa played a pivotal role in the team and amazed everyone with his power-hitting ability. He has 201 runs to his name in seven matches, and his quick cameos for the Men in Red have been prolific.

Mukesh Choudhary

Chennai Super Kings have never failed to surprise with their unique picks in IPL. They have been successful in moulding and shaping many budding cricketers. This year it was the pacer Mukesh Choudhary, who was purchased for a price of mere INR 20 lakh, but his performance for CSK has been worth million dollars. In just 10 games, he has added 13 wickets under his belt and has provided his team with the crucial breakthroughs in the powerplay.

Mohsin Khan

LSG pacer Mohsin Khan made a late entry into the team but wreaked havoc immediately. Purchased at a price of INR 20 lakh, the speedster already has nine wickets from five games at an average of 10.11 and an even better economy of 5.35. He registered his best bowling figures of 4/16 during LSG’s game against the Delhi Capitals to register the match-winning spell.

Umesh Yadav

Umesh Yadav has been one of the finest picks for Kolkata Knight Riders this season. He was roped in at a price of INR 2 crore and has provided his team with the crucial wickets in the powerplay. He did not leave any chance for his side to regret the decision and emerged as one of the most feared bowlers this season.

Tim Southee

Another experienced pacer bought by KKR is Tim Southee, who was purchased for INR 1.50 crore. After playing a few games in the initial stage, he was dropped from the side, but made a remarkable return, and has managed to scalp a minimum of one wicket in the last three matches. With KKR still in contention, Southee will give his best for the side to make it into the playoffs.