Saurabh Netravalkar, the India-born USA pacer, has been making waves with his impressive performances for the USA cricket team.
He performed well in the recently concluded Major League Cricket 2024 and was the top wicket-taker of the tournament with 15 wickets in just 7 matches.
His brilliant bowling displays have not only helped the USA qualify for the Super 8 stage of the tournament but have also caught the attention of several IPL franchises.
With the IPL 2025 mega-auction on the horizon, Netravalkar’s stocks have skyrocketed, and he is expected to be one of the most sought-after players in the auction.
Here are 3 IPL teams that could target Netravalkar at the 2025 mega auction:
1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) could be one of the teams that might bid for Netravalkar at the 2025 mega auction.
The pitches at Chepauk Stadium are known to be on the slower side, and Netravalkar’s ability to extract bounce and movement off the pitch could make him an ideal fit for the team.
CSK always identified and nurtured talented bowlers, and Netravalkar’s skills might just fit into their scheme of things.
His ability to bowl cutters and create an angle with his left-arm pace could be a valuable asset for the Super Kings.
2. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) could also be interested in acquiring Netravalkar’s services for the 2025 season.
The team has often struggled with their powerplay bowling, and Netravalkar’s ability to take wickets with the new ball could be a game-changer for them.
RCB’s head coach, Andy Flower, has already praised Netravalkar’s performances in the ongoing T20 World Cup and has even tipped him to be a part of the IPL in the 2025 season.
Andy Flower’s familiarity with Netravalkar’s skills, having worked with him in the ILT20 league, could give RCB an edge in the bidding war.
3. Mumbai Indians (MI)
The Mumbai Indians (MI) could also be a potential suitor for Netravalkar at the 2025 mega auction.
The team has suffered since the departure of Trent Boult, and Netravalkar’s left-arm pace could be the perfect replacement for the Kiwi pacer.
Netravalkar’s ability to swing the ball both ways and his effectiveness in the death overs could make him an attractive proposition for the five-time champions.
The team’s scouting and talent identification have been top-notch over the years, and they might see Netravalkar as a long-term investment.