By: Tarish Bhatt
The two new franchises, Team Pune and Team Rajkot, roped-in five players each in the IPL Draft, laying a strong foundation for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.
As expected, India limited-overs skipper MS Dhoni was the first pick in the IPL Draft, and was roped-in by Team Pune. Meanwhile, Suresh Raina went to Team Rajkot.
Ravindra Jadeja, who is in sublime form with both bat and ball, and was Chennai Super Kings’ mainstay, was taken by Team Rajkot, which is also his home franchise.
Team Pune then added Australia skipper Steve Smith, who earlier played for disbanded Pune Warriors India, and South Africa T20 skipper Faf du Plessis in their ranks.
Pune further strengthened their team by signing off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane, who are in prime form for India in all formats.
Team Rajkot, after signing Ravindra Jadeja and Suresh Raina, signed three overseas players – Brendon McCullum, James Faulkner and Dwayne Bravo.
The remaining players of suspended Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals will be going in the IPL Auction.
Team Pune: MS Dhoni, Faf du Plessis, Ravichandran Ashwin, Steve Smith and Ajinkya Rahane.
Team Rajkot: Ravindra Jadeja, Suresh Raina, Brendon McCullum, James Faulkner and Dwayne Bravo.
