English batsman Livingstone came as the most expensive buy on Day 2 of IPL Mega Auction. Roped in by Punjab Kings, Livingstone was bid Rs 11.5cr. As the second day of the IPL auction concluded, the franchises have their star players. The top five players to be auctioned were Ishan Kishan, Deepak Chahar, Shreyas Iyer and Liam Livingstone.
This year’s auction strategy was driven by analysts and coaches who have experience with these players in other leagues and have played with them. Edmeades, the auctioneer returned to the table on Day after he collapsed on Day 1 due to postural hypotension.
Overall, 600 players were tabled for bidding for 217 slots. The bidding war was intense on Day 1 when Ishan Kishan a wicketkeeper was sold to Mumbai Indians for Rs 15.25 crore. Another player the franchise bought was the legendary Indian cricketers’ son, Arjun Tendulkar. The 22-year-old player attracted a bid of Rs 25 lakh from Gujarat Titans who later lost him to the MI for Rs 30 lakh. This would be the second time young Tendulkar would be playing for MI.
The BCCI considers beginning the 15th IPL season at the end of March. The organization hopes to host the matches at home given the COVID tally of the nation is under control. It has been looking at venues in Mumbai and Pune, however, there is no confirmation yet.