IPL recently put out a statement that a total of 292 players would go under the hammer at the upcoming IPL 2021 Auction. The event will take place in Chennai on the 18th of February. Initially, 1097 cricketers had enrolled for the auctions, but after the subsequent trimming by the franchises, the number has now been brought down considerably.
With the mega-auctions likely to happen in 2022, the forthcoming auctions will be a low-key affair. Franchises would only be wanting to fill the small gaps in the squads, and hire some reinforcements for the bench. Of course, teams like RCB and KXIP will have to buy more players to complete their teams.
Players aged under 21 are always exciting to watch. They are fearless and bring plenty of energy to the field. A few of them could find a franchise at the auctions. In this article, we talk about five cricketers below 21 who can earn a bid on 18th February.
1. Mujeeb Ur Rahman – 19 years old
It was a surprise that KXIP let go of him. One of the best spinners on the planet at the moment, the Afghan youngster is likely to go for a big sum at the auctions. He has the mystery element to him, and that will be his USP. Teams like Mumbai Indians need spin reinforcements, and Mujeeb will definitely be on their shortlist. On pitches that will assist spin, Mujeeb can work his way around either during the powerplay or in the middle-overs. He surely will garner plenty of attention on February 18th.
Teams that might target him: Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals
2. Sandeep Lamichhane – 20 years old
It has been a rough few seasons for him but the prodigy from Nepal will be an exciting name to watch at the auctions. Yes, he had an indifferent BBL, but like Mujeeb, Sandeep possesses something mysterious about his bowling that will trouble the batsman always. Especially when he can bowl in tandem with an experienced spinner, the chances of Sandeep succeeding will be high. He is just 20 years old and could be one of the youngest earners at the event.
Teams that might target him: Mumbai Indians, Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals
3. Tanveer Sangha – 19 years old
Indian-origin Tanveer Sangha has been in good form in recent months. He could pick wickets consistently in BBL, and as a reward, he was also given a place in Australia’s T20 squad. Hence, he will be on the wishlist of many franchises at the auction. A leg-spinner, Tanveer is an exhibitor of modern T20 bowling. He also offers the incentive of a long-term investment, and hence, might earn a contract at IPL 2021 Auctions.
Teams that might target him: Chennai Super Kings, Kings XI Punjab and Sunrisers Hyderabad
4. Akash Singh – 18 years old
Akash Singh was one of the bright performers at India’s U19 World Cup campaign. A left-arm pacer, Akash troubled the batsmen with his angle and variations. He was picked up by Rajasthan Royals at the IPL 2020 Auction. He did not get a game, and after an unconvincing run in domestic cricket, he was released by the franchise. Nevertheless, Akash has potential and could excel under some proper mentorship. Just 18 years old, he can become the youngest pick at the auctions.
Teams that might target him: Kolkata Knight Riders, Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals
5. Arjun Tendulkar – 21 years old
One name that will make all ears stand up at the auction will be Arjun Tendulkar. Son of the ‘God of Cricket’, Arjun is a left-arm seamer who can bat a bit. He got a few games at SMAT but suffered from poor form. That said, he is still young and is someone who is growing up under tremendous pressure. While Mumbai Indians might target Arjun, it won’t be a surprise if other teams like KKR and RCB also think about the player.
Teams that might target him: Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore
