Usually, in an IPL auction, a player gets sold at his base price only if he is in the plans as a reserve or backup option. Of course, based on the auction dynamics, there could be some talented cricketers available for cheap by the end of the event. However, at times, we have seen such players go on and do well for the franchise. That has happened in IPL 2022, as well. On that note, in this article, we take a look at five players who were hired at their base price but performed well in IPL 2022.
Note: Players signed as replacements such as Rajat Patidar and Kumar Kartikeya Singh have not been considered because they were not hired at the auctions.
1) Umesh Yadav (Kolkata Knight Riders) – INR 2 Cr
Matches: 12 || Wickets: 16 || Economy: 7.06
After playing the initial games for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2020, Umesh Yadav did not play a single game until IPL 2022. He was part of the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2021 but he did not find an opportunity.
However, on return to KKR this season, Umesh found immense success. Everyone knew his ability to pick wickets in the powerplay and this time around, the Vidharba pacer also did well as a middle-overs enforcer. With the bat, too, Umesh brought a few games within reaching distance. Overall, he was one of the positive signs for KKR in IPL 2022.
2) Mohsin Khan (Lucknow Super Giants) – INR 20 L
Matches: 9 || Wickets: 14 || Economy: 5.96
Mohsin Khan is one of the players who were hired at their base price but performed well in IPL 2022. A Mumbai Indians find, Mohsin delivered big time for LSG this campaign.
A tall left-arm pacer with the ability to move the ball is almost a rarity in Indian cricket. Mohsin has now excited the Indian fans with his performances. He almost inevitably picked up a wicket in his first over and then followed it up with exquisite displays in the death, as well. Going forward, he will be part of India’s plans.
3) Jitesh Sharma (Punjab Kings) – INR 20 L
Matches: 12 || Runs: 234 || Strike Rate: 164
When it comes to “impact knocks”, Jitesh Sharma was extremely impressive in IPL 2022. In almost every game, he returned with solid cameos that had a positive impact on his team.
Apart from his skills with the willow, Jitesh was also excellent behind the stumps. A quality domestic wicket-keeper is of good value in IPL. Punjab Kings will be happy that they signed Jitesh, that too, at his base price.
4) Mukesh Choudhary (Chennai Super Kings) – INR 20 L
Matches: 13 || Wickets: 16 || Economy: 9.31
Mukesh Choudhary from Chennai Super Kings is also one of the players who were hired at their base price but performed well in IPL 2022. He was part of CSK as a net bowler in the past and due to Deepak Chahar’s absence, Mukesh got a lot of games to showcase his skills.
Just like Mohsin, Mukesh also performed well in the powerplay, especially in his first over. The youngster has scope for improvement but CSK will be happy with his performance.
5) Bhanuka Rajapaksa (Punjab Kings) – INR 50 L
Matches: 9 || Runs: 206 || Strike Rate: 160
Sri Lankan players have been out of the scene in IPL for a few years now. However, the situation is changing now. The success of the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga has paved way for more talents from the island nation.
Although there were not many expectations from the cricketer, Bhanuka left an impression with his big-hitting caliber. He was also decent behind the stumps. Considering he is a left-hander and hired at his base price, Bhanuka is likely to be retained for the next campaign.
