Despite performing well in the domestic circuit, Shahrukh Khan’s performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been ordinary. He has played 33 matches so far in the cash-rich league, scoring 426 runs at a strike rate of 134.81. After backing him for three seasons, Punjab Kings released the all-rounder in order to increase their budget for the upcoming mini-auction, which is slated to take place on December 19 in Dubai.
Ahead of that, veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes that the all-rounder can once again create a bidding war and this time, Chennai Super Kings and Gujarat Titans will be heavily interested in signing him. Notably, Chennai have released Ben Stokes while Gujarat have traded Hardik Pandya to Mumbai Indians and hence, both franchises need a pace-bowling all-rounder. Shahrukh fits the criteria that’s required and hence, Ashwin expects him to be sold for a lot of money.
“I can definitely see a war between CSK and Gujarat for Shahrukh Khan. Gujarat have let go of Hardik Pandya, Gujarat needs a player who can finish the innings, a sort of power player and they need a power player. Shahrukh was at Rs 9 crore At Kings, and I thought he showed his skills pretty well. Is it a decent release? Because I think he might end up going for Rs 12-13 crore again,” said Ravichandran Ashwin on his YouTube channel.
CSK might even take a chance of missing out on Mitchell Starc to get Shahrukh: Ashwin
Several online reports claim that the five-time champions may run after Mitchell Starc, who’s all set to make his return to IPL. Generally, CSK have an eye for Australian quicks and having Starc will bolster their bowling unit heavily. However, Ashwin believes in the pursuit of Shahrukh, the MS Dhoni-led side can even sacrifice having Starc.
“CSK might even take a chance of missing out on Mitchell Starc to get Shahrukh Khan because they don't have a local player or a presence. They went for Shahrukh Khan in the mega auction, and that's why I'm guessing so,” Ashwin added.
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