In a dramatic bidding showdown during the IPL 2024 Auctions, New Zealand’s rising star batsman, Rachin Ravindra, entered the fray for the first time, triggering a competitive bid between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. However, Delhi Capitals withdrew at the 1 crore mark, making way for Punjab Kings to join the bidding alongside CSK. The anticipation around CSK’s interest in Rachin seemed palpable, with the yellow franchise eventually acquiring him for 1 crore 80 lakh, a figure below fan expectations.
Rachin Ravindra gained international prominence during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, leaving an indelible mark with his debut century of 123 runs against England. The Kiwi youngster went on to score three centuries in the tournament, including notable performances against Australia and Pakistan, setting a record for the most runs by a debutant in a single World Cup edition with a total of 578 runs.
Ahead of the IPL auction, cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar had weighed in on CSK’s potential bid for Rachin Ravindra. While many speculated CSK’s interest, Gavaskar suggested that the reigning champions might not be overly eager for the New Zealand all-rounder. Citing existing options like Moeen Ali and Mitchell Santner in the CSK ranks, Gavaskar predicted that although CSK would participate in the bidding, they wouldn’t be desperate to secure Rachin’s services.
