The Royal Challengers Bangalore bought Australia's Glenn Maxwell and South African all-rounder Chris Morris joined the Rajasthan Royals at Thursday's Indian Premier League player auction.
Morris and Maxwell were purchased for 16.25 and 14.25 INR crore, respectively.
Maxwell had been released by the Kings XI Punjab, who have since been renamed the Punjab Kings. Morris had left the Royal Challengers.
“We know how good a player Glenn is away from the IPL. Only a couple of years ago he was used higher up and had his best IPL,” said RCB director of cricket Mike Hesson.
“He can help AB de Villiers out, provide an extra bit of power in the middle. We have other players doing other jobs. We were after that X-factor player in the middle and are delighted.”
Rajasthan's Take on Morris
Rajasthan won the inaugural IPL in 2008. They haven't claimed a title since. Morris is a solid boost to their batting and bowling ranks.
“We spoke to Chris before the auction and did a full medical review. We did due diligence. He's an ex-Royal who can deal with a price tag like that,” said Rajasthan chief operations officer Jake Luch McCrum.
“He is a quality bowler through all phases of the game. He can win us games with the bat, too. We are happy to have him.”
Other 2021 IPL Auction Purchases
Former Australian captain Steven Smith, who had been released by the Royals, was sold to the Delhi Capitals for INR 2.20 crore.
Australian fast bowler Jhye Richardson, who starred in the recent Big Bash League, went to Punjab for INR 14 crore.
England all-rounder Moeen Ali was bought by the Chennai Super Kings for INR 7 crore.
Mumbai's New Recruits
The Mumbai Indians are the most successful franchise in the history of the IPL. They have five titles and are the reigning champions.
Mumbai bought Australian all-rounder Nathan Coulter-Nile for INR 5 crore this week. New Zealand fast bowler Adam Milne also joined Mumbai for INR 3.20 crore.
IPL Start Date and Host Country
The Board of Control for Cricket in India haven't confirmed the start date for the 2021 IPL yet. Whether the tournament will be hosted in the United Arab Emirates again remains in the balance.
