Mystery spinners have always been valuable in T20 cricket, especially for breaking partnerships and controlling the middle overs. In the upcoming IPL season, several mystery spinners are expected to draw attention at the auction. These players can have a major impact on the outcome of the tournament. This season will be no different, and some spinners could change the dynamics of the auction. In this article, we highlight the top 5 mystery spinners of the IPL who are expected to get the highest bids in the upcoming mega auction.
Yuzvendra Chahal (India)
Yuzvendra Chahal, the highest wicket-taker in IPL history, has claimed 205 wickets in 160 matches at an average of 22.45. In the 2022 IPL, he won the Purple Cap with 27 wickets in 17 matches.
While his economy rate was high (9.41) last season with 18 wickets in 15 matches, his vast experience and ability to turn games around in tough situations make him a valuable asset for IPL franchises. As a leg-spinner, Chahal also has a deadly flipper that can easily trouble any batter.
Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka)
Wanindu Hasaranga is currently one of the most feared leg spinners in T20 cricket. He was picked up by Royal Challengers Bangalore for a hefty price during the 2022 Mega Auction. In his debut season, he took 26 wickets in 16 matches, finishing as the second-highest wicket-taker of the tournament. Although injuries kept him out of the second season, his recent performances, including a standout showing in the T20 World Cup, make him a key player to watch. Expect all teams to target him in this season’s auction.
Washington Sundar (India)
Washington Sundar’s performances this year have led to a significant rise in his market value. After returning to the Indian Test team, he impressed with his ability to dominate New Zealand’s batters throughout the series. In the IPL, Sundar has taken 37 wickets in 60 matches at an impressive economy rate of 7.54.
In the IPL retention list for 2024, his current team, Sunrisers Hyderabad, did not retain him. His all-round skills, particularly his ability to bowl in the middle overs and contribute with the bat, will make him a valuable asset in the upcoming IPL auction.
“Excited for SET 7 in the IPL Mega Auction! 🌟
Featuring top spinners: Noor Ahmad, Rahul Chahar, Wanindu Hasaranga, Zahir Khan, Maheesh Theekshana, and Adam Zampa. pic.twitter.com/GNEMctQtcI
— Hemant Bhavsar (@hemantbhavsar86) November 15, 2024
Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka)
Maheesh Theekshana is the third-highest wicket-taker among spinners in T20 cricket since November 2021. He joined Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2022 and made a strong impact.
With 25 wickets in 27 matches and an economy rate of 7.66, his skills with both the new ball and at the back end of innings make him stand out. Despite being a favourite of MS Dhoni, Chennai Super Kings did not retain him. His recent performances make him a strong contender in the upcoming IPL auction.
Harpreet Brar (India)
We will close the list with Harpreet Brar. The young star of Punjab Kings is one of India’s most promising left-arm spinners. He joined Punjab Kings in IPL 2019 but did not get much opportunity initially. However, in one match against Royal Challengers Bangalore, he caught the attention of the cricket world by dismissing star batsmen like Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, and Glenn Maxwell.
He has taken 25 wickets in 41 matches in the IPL, with an economy rate of 7.91. The 29-year-old spinner can also contribute with the bat and in stopping runs. Hence, he will be closely watched by many teams in the mega-auction.