IPL 2017: Ben Stokes could go for an even higher price next year, feels Carlos Brathwaite

What’s the story?

One could be forgiven for thinking that Ben Stokes’ unbelievable price tag from the 2017 IPL auction cannot be overhauled. But, if Carlos Brathwaite’s words are anything to go by, the Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) all-rounder may fetch an even higher amount of money during next year’s mega-auction.

“He (Stokes) has always been a decent bowler. I don't think one bad night should define his career and in the aftermath of the World T20, that seemed to be the case. There was probably a lot more spotlight on him in this tournament than usual because of the price tag, and he has shown a lot of mental toughness in returning to India and the scene of the crime, if you want to call it that,” Brathwaite told Sky Sports.

The Delhi Daredevils player added, “There will be another big auction next year, and if he is allowed to return - depending on England commitments - he could go for an even heftier price tag. Players like Stokes are worth their weight in gold and if he continues the way he is going, he will fetch a large amount again."

The Context

After setting his base price at INR 2 crore, Stokes caused a bidding war as franchises clamoured to secure his services in the 2017 IPL auction. Eventually, he was signed by RPS for a jaw-dropping INR 14.5 crore and became the most expensive overseas player in the tournament’s history.

The heart of the matter

Even though he was under considerable pressure to live up to his monstrous price tag, Stokes handled the expectations quite smartly and emerged as one of the most valuable players in this IPL season. From 12 matches, he scored 316 runs at an average of 31.60 and strike rate of 142.98 including a sensational century. In the bowling department, the right-armer picked up 12 wickets at an economy rate of 7.18.

Producing game-changing performances with both bat and ball, the all-rounder earned three Player of the Match awards in this edition. However, before the playoffs began, the 25-year-old was ordered by England cricket’s top brass to take part in a training camp in Spain and prepare for the upcoming summer.

What’s next?

Reportedly, IPL’s governing council are contemplating the idea of sending all the players back to the auction pool next year in order to bring a sense of freshness for the 2018 season. The ‘right to match’ option could be the last resort for various franchises to retain the big names.

Author’s Take

Factoring into account the fickle nature of IPL auctions and the unpredictable mindsets of the different franchises, it might be a tad difficult for Stokes to beat his own price record. Nevertheless, he should be able to rake in the cash during next year’s auction too.