News
IPL
Features arrow
Fantasy Cricket
Interviews
Watch
Social Reactions
menu menu
search
Indian Premier League - IPL
November 16, 2024 - 3:54 pm

5 Teams Likely to Compete for Liam Livingstone at IPL 2025 Auction

Liam Livingstone can start a bidding war among five franchises in the upcoming IPL 2025 mega auction owing to his dual skill set.

England all-rounder Liam Livingstone will be quite a hot prospect going into the IPL 2025 mega auction, scheduled to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25. The 31-year-old is one of the most dangerous T20 batters in the world and is also capable of bowling effectively, giving his team breakthroughs in the middle-overs.

Over a span of 289 T20 matches in his career, Livingstone has amassed over 6000 runs, including two centuries and 35 fifties, and has also claimed 126 wickets. This shows how effective he is with his dual skill set and that’s why as many as five franchises are expected to engage in a bidding war to acquire his services in the upcoming IPL 2025 Auction.

Livingstone has entered the auction at a base price of INR 2 crores. Here, we shall take a look at those teams:

Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Historically, Punjab Kings have struggled to find consistency in the IPL, often finishing in the lower half of the table. In the 2024 season, they ended at the bottom, prompting a comprehensive overhaul of their squad. Notably, PBKS released several key players, including their captain Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, and Liam Livingstone himself, ahead of the 2025 auction.

Despite releasing Livingstone, PBKS might consider re-acquiring him to strengthen their middle order. His ability to accelerate the innings and provide crucial breakthroughs with the ball aligns with the team’s need for impactful all-rounders. With a substantial purse and four RTM cards remaining after minimal retentions, PBKS is well-positioned to bid aggressively for Livingstone.

Also Read: 6 Overseas Openers who will be in Demand at IPL 2025 Auction

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)

RCB released several key players, including Glenn Maxwell and Cameron Green, ahead of the 2025 auction. Maxwell endured a horrific run of batting form last season and Green recently underwent a surgery to cure his back issues.

This has led them to look for an equally effective all-rounder in the auction and there can’t be a better option than Liam Livingstone.

The departure of Maxwell, a pivotal middle-order batsman and part-time spinner, leaves a significant void in RCB’s batting line-up. Livingstone, with his aggressive batting style and ability to bowl both off-spin and leg-spin, emerges as an ideal replacement. His inclusion could provide the necessary firepower in the middle order and add depth to the bowling attack. RCB’s strategy may involve targeting Livingstone to fill the all-rounder role, aiming to balance their squad and enhance their chances of securing their maiden IPL trophy.

Also Read: 8 Popular Aged Indian Players Set to Storm the IPL 2025 Auction

Delhi Capitals (DC)

Delhi Capitals have been consistent performers in recent seasons but are yet to secure their first IPL title. Ahead of the 2025 auction, DC made significant changes, releasing players like Rishabh Pant, Harry Brook, Jake Fraser-McGurk, and David Warner.

The release of such key batters opens up opportunities for DC to revamp their batting order. Liam Livingstone’s aggressive batting approach could provide the impetus needed at the top or middle order. Additionally, his ability to contribute with the ball offers strategic flexibility.

DC’s management might view Livingstone as a valuable addition to their squad, aiming to inject fresh energy and versatility into their line-up as they pursue their elusive first championship.

Also Read: Full List of 81 Players Registered for INR 2 Crore Base Price in IPL 2025 Auction

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

As one of the newer franchises, Lucknow Super Giants have shown promise but are still in the process of building a cohesive unit. In preparation for the 2025 season, LSG released several players, including KL Rahul, Marcus Stoinis, Kyle Mayers, and Quinton de Kock.

The departure of these key batters and all-rounders necessitates the acquisition of impactful players to fill the void. Liam Livingstone’s ability to play aggressive cricket and his experience in various T20 leagues make him a suitable candidate.

His inclusion could provide the necessary firepower and balance to LSG’s batting line-up. Moreover, his part-time spin bowling adds an extra dimension to the team’s bowling arsenal.

Gujarat Titans (GT)

Gujarat Titans have retained a core group of players but have also released several key members, including David Miller, Matthew Wade, and Kane Williamson.

The release of these experienced batters opens up opportunities for GT to infuse fresh talent into their squad. Liam Livingstone familiarity with the middle-order role and ability to handle pressure situations make him an attractive prospect. His versatility with the ball adds depth to the bowling attack, providing strategic options for the team management.