Picture Credit: BCCI/IPL
The speculations around the captain for the Ahmedabad franchise seem to have come to an end. As per the latest reports, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya is all set to get the leadership role for them. The three draft picks ahead of the IPL 2022 Mega Auctions also look decided. Apart from Hardik Pandya, Ahmedabad looks all set to rope in swashbuckling batter Ishan Kishan and star spinner Rashid Khan for their maiden run in the Indian Premier League.
Earlier, a few reports had claimed that Shreyas Iyer can be given the leadership role for Ahmedabad.
The two new franchises have been given three free picks ahead of the mega auction. Ahmedabad has also finalized the names of the coaching staff. Gary Kirsten is all set to take over the Team Mentor role while Ashish Nehra's name has been finalized for the head coach position. Vikram Solanki is likely to get the role of Team Director. While Ahmedabad looks to have zeroed upon the names, an announcement regarding the same can be expected from the Lucknow really soon. Recent reports have suggested that the Sanjeev Goenka-owned franchise is interested in appointing KL Rahul as their captain.
IPL 2022 Mega Auctions dates can be pushed back
While all the teams are gearing up for the mega auctions, a confirmation around the dates for the same hangs in doubt. The BCCI had the dates and venue decided (12 and 13 February in Bengaluru) but the exponential rise in COVID-19 cases has raised concerns. The Karnataka government has started implementing stricter measures to curb the spread of the virus leaving BCCI with only two options, The Indian cricket board can either wait till the situation gets under control or hold the event somewhere else.
The commencement of the entire 15th edition of the Indian T20 League in India also looks in danger. A source in BCCI had claimed that the board is exploring overseas options looking at the dire situation in the country.