High-Stakes IPL Auction: Stars Set to Shine in Abu Dhabi

The IPL auction in Abu Dhabi will see 350 cricketers, including 240 Indians, competing for 77 slots. Notable participants include South Africa's Quinton de Kock and Australia's Steve Smith. With varying base prices, the auction promises to be a thrilling event as teams vie for the best talent.

The long-anticipated IPL auction, scheduled to unfold in Abu Dhabi, promises an exciting showdown with 350 cricketers from around the globe, including 240 from India. South Africa's Quinton de Kock, making a surprising comeback, joins other elite players like Australia's Steve Smith, both bound to draw significant attention.

With a staggering 1,390 players initially registered, the list has been meticulously pruned to 350, setting the stage for a high-stakes auction where 10 teams will compete for 77 coveted slots, including 31 for overseas talent. In-demand names like Prithvi Shaw and Sarfaraz Khan, among others, add further intrigue to the event.

The financial dynamics will also be at play, with Kolkata Knight Riders entering with the largest auction purse of Rs 64.3 crores. The strategic bidding will determine how home-grown and international players, including participants from New Zealand, the West Indies, and Afghanistan, will shape the 19th edition of the IPL.

(With inputs from agencies.)