The change in the Auction policy for 2018 VIVO IPL player auctions could end up benefiting Nepal’s Sandeep Lamichhane get a possible bid.
In the previous editions of IPL player auctions, all capped players were auctioned first before the auctions for uncapped players began. For 2018, there will be alternate rounds for both Capped and Uncapped players held during the auctions.
So, it is highly likely that Teams will shell out big bucks to acquire the Capped players in the first few rounds and Sandeep, coming in at #276 in the auctions will not have too many teams keeping big amount of reserves. However, for a base price of only 20 Lakhs and full availability during the IPL tournament could all go in his favour as some team might just bid for him to strengthen their overseas quota or just complete it for this year’s edition.
With the fact that he was one of the 9 players requested by the Franchises to be shortlisted after the conclusion of the long-list showcases that his recent performances for Nepal in ACC U19 Asia Cup Qualifiers & Main draw and WCL Championship matches were a factor in him getting shortlisted.
India U19 coach Rahul Dravid has seen him first-hand on the historic day when Nepal U19 recorded an upset victory over India U19 in the U19 Asia Cup group stage match.
Will teams like Rajasthan Royals or Delhi Daredevils, who have shown inclination towards giving opportunities to youngsters show the interest and bid for Sandeep?? Only time will tell..all action unfolds on Jan 27th & 28th in Bengaluru, India.
