Delhi Premier League Season 2 Auction Highlights: Major Player Acquisitions

Exciting Developments from the DPL Auction

The Delhi Premier League (DPL) has introduced two new franchises for its second season, leading to an electrifying auction filled with competitive bidding. Here’s a summary of the significant happenings from the event.

Simarjeet Singh Tops the Auction List

Former CSK player Simarjeet Singh, who recently played for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, became the most expensive acquisition of the auction. He was secured by Central Delhi Kings for ₹39 lakh, making him the highest-paid player this season.

Digvesh Rathi Secures Second Spot

Emerging leg-spinner Digvesh Rathi, who showcased his talent with Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, was acquired by Delhi Superstarz for ₹38 lakh, ranking as the second most costly player in the auction.

Notable Contracts for Rana and Yadav

Veteran batsman Nitish Rana was signed by West Delhi Lions for ₹34 lakh, while right-arm pacer Prince Yadav was picked up by New Delhi Tigers for ₹33 lakh.

Key Retentions by Franchises

Purani Dilli retained their star player Rishabh Pant, while North Delhi Strikers kept pacer Harshit Rana. South Delhi Superstarz held onto all-rounder Ayush Badoni, and defending champions East Delhi Riders retained Anuj Rawat. West Delhi Lions secured young batter Ayush Doseja, and Central Delhi Kings kept Jonty Sidhu.

New Teams Make Strategic Moves

The league welcomed two new teams: Outer Delhi Warriors retained Priyansh Arya, and New Delhi Tigers selected Himmat Singh as their first player.

Tactical Use of Right to Match Cards

Several teams strategically utilized their Right to Match (RTM) cards during the auction. East Delhi Riders retained Mayank Rawat for ₹26 lakh after a competitive bidding process. Purani Dilli re-signed Vansh Bedi, who was initially unsold, for ₹16 lakh. South Delhi Superstarz kept Tejasvi Dahiya for ₹13.5 lakh, while Central Delhi Kings recalled Money Grewal through RTM. West Delhi Lions used RTM to retain Ankit Kumar Rajesh for ₹10 lakh, and North Delhi Strikers kept Yajas Sharma for ₹12.5 lakh.

Virender Sehwag's Sons Join the DPL

Aaryavir Sehwag, the son of cricket icon Virender Sehwag, was signed by Central Delhi Kings for ₹8 lakh. Additionally, Aryaveer Kohli, nephew of Virat Kohli, was picked by South Delhi Superstarz for a base price of ₹1 lakh.