RR buy Stokes for Rs 12.5 cr, also get Rahane for Rs 4 cr

In first round of IPL auction of marquee players, the most hectic auction was for dynamic England allrounder Ben Stokes.

Despite recent brush with law, which saw him out of action from international cricket for some time, Stokes was a hot favourite of the IPL franchises, simply for the value he brings the table. Stokes was instrumental in getting RSP to the final of IPL 10.

His auction base price was Rs 2 crore, with no one having RTM on him, as RPS is no longer part of IPL.

The bidding started at Rs 2 crore with CSK and KXIP making the first move. KKR joined the party and KXIP significantly raised the stake by bidding Rs 9 crore for him. KKR and KXIP went for a bidding war, till SRK's franchise backed off at Rs 12 crore.

The bid was with KXIP and they looked all set to get the talented allrounder. But suddenly, Rajasthan Royals entered the fray with a late bid of Rs 12.5 crore forcing KXIP to opt out. It was almost like a classic T20, with a late twist sealing the game. Rajasthan Royals known for its frugal buying has always got one top allrounder in their squad, pointed out Anil Kumble in commentary.

And this season is no exception, with Ben Stokes stepping in Shane Watson's big boots. Interestingly, Stokes got pay package of Rs 14.5 crores from RPS. So a pay-cut for him. But he wouldn't be complaining too much.

Diminutive Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane is also back in Royal fold. He was retained for price fo Rs 4 crore. His base price was Rs 2 crore. KXIP and Mumbai Indians entered bid for him. Finally KXIP got him Rs 4 crore, but RR used its RTM card to get him. Another loss for KXIP, who was outsmarted by other franchises using RTM.

Both Rahane and Stokes played for RPS in the last season. Before that Rahane was in RR, and hence they had the option of RTM. Both will be Royals again, but this time for Rajasthan.

Source: DNA India