West Indies players could trigger a bidding war in the IPL 2020 auction, feels Mohammad Kaif

The auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 is all set to kick off in the next few hours in Kolkata. After 971 players registered for the event, the franchises shortlisted them to around 332, whose fate will be decided when they go under the hammer. Six more players were also added to the list ahead of the much-awaited IPL 2020 Auction.

As this edition’s auction is going to be a mini-auction, most franchises will be aiming to fill their gaps before starting from scratch in the next year’s mega auction. All eyes will be on the Caribbean players, who are expected to rage a bidding war in this year’s auction. Ahead of the highly-anticipated auction, former Indian batsman Mohammad Kaif has opined that the West Indies players will be sought after when they go under the hammer.

West Indies players have always been an integral part of IPL since its inception. Monstrous sixes, enthralling celebrations and a buoyant personality- West Indies players are equipped with every trait that could garner them the attention in whichever part of the world they play. Considering the recent form, West Indies players like Sheldon Cottrell and Shimron Hetmyer could fetch massive bids from multiple franchises.

Shai Hope is also expected to fetch bids in IPL 2020 auction

“The West Indies players can be really dangerous in the shorter format of the game and that’s why they will be sought after in the auction. They have proven their mettle over the years and this time too, they will be in demand. They have all the potential to go far,” said Kaif as quoted by Sportstar.

Many West Indies players have showcased their calibre in the recently-concluded T20I series and the on-going ODI series against India. Another name which could also trigger a bidding war is Shai Hope. The wicket-keeper batsman in sublime touch with the scores of 102* and 78 in the first two ODIs against India. Even though the right-hander has not been quite lethal in the shortest format, franchises wouldn’t hesitate in acquiring his services.

“Shai Hope can hold one end, while from the other end, you can play big shots. These names don’t go around much, but you should see his record for the past one year. I feel for these players because they don’t get much attention for not having too huge a strike rate. If they wish to change their game, they can,” Kaif said.

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