“Splendid cricketer in all forms of the game” – Sunil Gavaskar on CSK’s acquisition of Daryl Mitchell

Legendary Sunil Gavaskar feels Chennai Super Kings’ best buy in the Indian Premier League 2024 auction was New Zealand all-rounder Daryl Mitchell. The Kiwi batter was roped in by the defending champions for a whopping amount of INR 14 crores.

Mitchell has been in terrific form and has consistently delivered for the Blackcaps. The right-hander scored 552 runs in 10 matches of the ODI World Cup 2023 at an impressive average of 69 and a strike rate of 111.07. Mitchell also scored a fine knock of 134 runs in the semifinal against India but his efforts went in vain.

Mitchell has an average of more than 50 in Test and ODI formats. Furthermore, Mitchell can also contribute with the ball for Chennai Super Kings.

Speaking to Star Sports, Sunil Gavaskar said, “Doesn’t matter whether I am happy or not, they have got to be happy. I think they have got a good blend over there. When you look at Daryl Mitchell, who I think has been a splendid cricketer in all forms of the game.”

“The way he played in the ODI World Cup and the way he has played in the T20 format as well, with the fact that he can bowl a bit. He might not bowl you four overs but he can maybe come and bowl you the odd couple of overs,” Gavaskar stated.

On the other hand, the MS Dhoni-led team was also able to rope in the services of Rachin Ravindra, who was the find of the ODI showpiece, for a steal price of INR 1.8 crores. The left-hander scored 578 runs in 10 matches in the World Cup at an average of 64.22. Gavaskar feels CSK will be hopeful that the all-rounder fills in the shoes of Moeen Ali.

“I know the emotional buy would have been Rachin Ravindra because of the fantastic World Cup that he had. They will probably be looking to see whether he can fit in the shoes of Moeen Ali.”

“Both of them are similar cricketers, excepting Moeen bowls right-handed and bats left-handed, and Rachin Ravindra bats left-handed and bowls left-handed as well. Both are outstanding fielders as well,” Gavaskar added.

IPL 2024 will begin on March 22.