Chetan Sakariya finds himself in a challenging situation ahead of the IPL 2024 auction having been recently named in the suspect bowling action list by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Sakariya's career faces a crucial juncture with the possibility that IPL teams would hesitate to pick him given the current situation. Despite not being banned from bowling, the BCCI's notification to IPL franchises about his suspect action could mean he goes unsold.
Most expensive players by each IPL team in auction history
Chetan Sakariya and the challenges
Sakariya, who has played in 19 IPL games, has also represented India in one ODI and two T20Is. His talent has been evident in his performances, but the recent development raises questions about his immediate future. The Saurashtra Cricket Association and those close to Sakariya were reportedly unaware of his inclusion in the suspect list, adding to the uncertainty.
The 25-year-old has been sidelined due to a stress fracture in his back and was released by the Delhi Capitals franchise. However, there is optimism within the Saurashtra team that he will return to action soon, possibly in the Ranji Trophy this season. Sakariya's absence from the last IPL and domestic matches, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy, means he will be keen to make a strong comeback.
Sakariya has set a base price of Rs 50 lakh for himself and is listed as No. 27 in the auction register. His talent is undeniable, but the recent developments might make IPL franchises cautious. Teams often look for players without any complications, and Sakariya's suspect action, coupled with his recent injury, could impact his chances.
The BCCI's approach to Sakariya's situation will be crucial. While they have not banned him from bowling, their communication to the IPL teams about his action will be a factor in the auction. The board's decision to include other domestic players in the suspect action list, including some who have been banned from bowling, indicates a stringent approach to maintaining the integrity of the game.
Yash dayal (5-6 c)
— Masilan Samuel (@MasilanSamuel) December 11, 2023
Chetan sakariya(5-6c)
Karthik tyagi (9-11 c)
One of them would play for rcb but who's going to play for rcb?
I feel it's going to be Chetan sakariya,since he was a net bowler of RCB and he could be got at a price of 5-6 crore.
Let's see…
The IPL auction, scheduled to commence at 11:30 am UAE time (1 pm IST) on December 19 in Dubai, will feature 333 cricketers, including 214 Indians and 119 overseas players. With 116 capped players and 215 uncapped, along with two from associate nations, the auction promises to be a competitive affair. Franchises will be weighing various factors, including player availability and recent controversies, before making their bids.
Sakariya's talent as a left-arm pacer is unquestionable, but the suspect action listing and recent injury raise concerns. IPL franchises will have to balance the potential risk against the rewards of acquiring a player of Sakariya's caliber.
