Why should franchises pick players outside World Cup squad?
The situation is getting intense as teams are gearing up for the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction to be held in Jaipur on December 18, 2018. Teams will be doing their homework and making plans accordingly. One major criteria for the franchises will be the availability of the players. Here we analyze the same.
Situation surrounding Australia and England players
Earlier, Cricket Australia and England and Wales Cricket Board have made it clear to the BCCI that their players would not be available for the IPL 2019 edition after May 1. The decision was taken due to the schedule of the ICC World Cup 2019, which starts from May 30 in England. And we feel it is crucial for teams to understand the auction.
Teams should be focused more on impact players
Recently cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle said that franchises should pick players who may not make their national teams for the World Cup 2019. And we agree with his opinion. Teams should set their focus more on impact players, who will not be part of the coveted tourney. This will help teams have players for the full edition and that can help all parties concerned.
346 players up for grabs in the auction
There are a total of 346 players up for grabs when the auction starts on December 18 in Jaipur. 226 Indian players are available in the auction. South Africa (26), Australia (23) and the West Indies (18) follow suit.
Possible direction for franchises
So far there is no availability issues with the West Indies and New Zealand cricketers. So expect teams to bank on these two nations. Also one could see Indian players be hot properties in the auction as well. Moreover, players who have done well in other T20 leagues could be ideal choices too. Getting players who will be in WC squads is a risk.
