‘A 10-part series could be made’ - Dinesh Karthik shares insights into exhaustive IPL auction planning

Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik opened up about the intense build-up to the Indian Premier League (IPL) mini-auction, calling it one of the most demanding yet enjoyable phases of his cricketing career. Reflecting on the extensive behind-the-scenes work, Karthik remarked that the preparation alone could make for a compelling series.

He described the days leading up to the auction as particularly exhausting, noting that the ten-day period before the event is so tiring and at times far tougher than actually playing cricket.

"If the world gets to see the whole footage of what all we speak and what all we discuss, they can do a mega serial, I feel. They can do a 10-part TV series on it. It was the most exhilarating 10 days prior to the auction, the way we prepped. I don't think I've gone through an experience like that. I've played a lot of cricket, but to be in the boardroom discussing what it takes to make a team was the most challenging, most fun, engaging week, 10 days I've had because there was so much prep that went into it. Mo and Andy have a very detailed process that they go through,” said Karthik in a video shared by RCB on X.

Karthik emphasised that, despite the long hours, he thoroughly enjoyed being part of the strategic core group. Comparing the current mini-auction with the previous mega auction, he admitted that the latter offered a level of excitement that remains unmatched. He also reflected on the complexities of player evaluation, explaining the multiple layers of decision-making involved in assessing talent and finalising choices.

"And I thoroughly enjoyed every second of being in that room. At times, it was tiring because we had 12-hour, 14-hour days. I really enjoyed every second. I would do anything to have the same kind of experience in the lead-up to an auction. This is a mini auction, very different. I must admit that the week in the lead-up to the mega auction was exciting. So many names, so many skill sets, how are you going to line up the team, giving your inputs, seeing what matters. So many things come into play and I thoroughly enjoyed it,” said Karthik.

"But it's very interesting, intriguing and mentally challenging because you're assessing various things. A- the skill set. B- what does it take to be part of a team? But most importantly, the auction order. Where does the player come from? Will we bid for him? If we bid, how far will we go? What do we need to do? So it is a very intricate process, very challenging process and that's the thrill in an auction,” he added.

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Karthik highlighted the competitive atmosphere among franchises and the importance of understanding the specific strategy his team aimed to execute. He added that the auction process is always exciting and said he is looking forward to reconnecting with everyone involved.

"Because when you go sit in an auction, there are 10 tables there and each one wants to get their best team with the best players lined up. And it's not about out-thinking at times; it is about understanding what strategy you want and what you want to make sure you achieve," said Karthik.

"At the same time, enjoying this whole process because I was looking forward to coming back. Just seeing everybody back together on the ground was such a nice feeling. Last night, to be fair, I didn't sleep much. I was very excited to see Andy, Malo, Mo, all of them together," he concluded.