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Aakash Chopra expressed doubts about Gujarat Titans’ IPL 2024 auction tactics, particularly their approach to bidding for Mitchell Starc. Despite having a substantial amount left in their purse, Titans chose to halt their pursuit.
Aakash Chopra raised doubts about the Gujarat Titans’ strategy in the IPL 2024 auction
Aakash Chopra discussed in a YouTube video how Gujarat Titans could have increased their bid for Mitchell Starc. Chopra pointed out that the Titans had enough financial leeway to extend their pursuit of Starc beyond their initial bid.
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You were chasing Mitchell Starc aggressively but stopped just before securing him, leaving eight crore rupees unused. This makes one wonder about Gujarat’s strategy—why they stopped at 24 crores instead of utilizing the remaining funds.
We believed that if Gujarat Titans were determined to acquire a player, their financial strength and minimal vacant slots made them unstoppable. With a well-prepared team, stopping at 24 crores raised questions—they could have easily extended to 25 crores given their advantageous position.
With a starting purse of Rs 38.15 crore, the Titans made significant purchases during the auction. They acquired players such as Spencer Johnson, Shahrukh Khan, Umesh Yadav, and Robin Minz. Notably, they spent Rs 10 crore on securing Australian fast bowler Spencer Johnson to bolster their overseas seam-bowling options. Johnson, aged 28, boasts a strong T20 track record, claiming 17 wickets in 20 matches with an impressive economy rate of 7.84.
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Additionally, Aakash Chopra suggested that the Gujarat Titans might have considered Gerald Coetzee instead of Spencer Johnson. He voiced uncertainties about Johnson’s suitability for the IPL environment, indicating a mixed perspective on the Titans’ decision.
They withdrew and indicated a shift in their approach. Instead, they acquired Spencer Johnson for 10 crores. It seemed evident that they were seeking a left-arm fast bowler. Nevertheless, I keep repeating myself—Gerald Coetzee was accessible at five crores, presenting an alternative option.
“Spencer Johnson is decent. He bowls at a good pace, but based on what I’ve observed, I have my doubts. Sure, he bowls at 145 kph, but I’m uncertain about how he’ll adapt to the challenging environment of the IPL. I’m on the fence; I’m not fully convinced yet.”
“The Mumbai Indians, five-time IPL champions, secured Gerald Coetzee for Rs 5 crore during the auction. Coetzee emerged as South Africa’s top wicket-taker in the 2023 World Cup held in India and is experienced in playing in Indian conditions.”