IPL Auctions 2014: 10 most coveted explosive hard-hitting batsmen

8. Brad Hodge – Australia

Brad Hodge

Base Price = 2 crore

The veteran Australian proved that age is just a number in the last edition of the Premier league as he smashed the ball everywhere to help Rajasthan win a key match at the play-off stage. He was instrumental in the entire campaign taking to the crease in the last few overs of the innings and getting quickfire runs.

He scored at an average of more than 40.00 runs and remained undefeated 7 times out of his 14 innings which indicates that he played the role of the finisher in a consummate fashion. Hodge’s stature might deceive the viewer but he can pack quite a punch with his shots and it’s all the more impressive that he relishes the challenge of doing so against quality fast bowling.

He is not afraid of pulling and hooking and has a wide range of strokes to put to use. He brings with him loads of experience that is always good to have with so much young talent around.

7. Jesse Ryder – New Zealand

Jesse Ryder

Base Price = 1 crore

The New Zealand opener was tragically missing from the last edition of the Indian Premier League due to a freak incident. He has since made a promising comeback to International Cricket starring in the ODI series against India.

Ryder is a magnificent player to have at the top of the order as he will more often than not give his side a quick start. He makes smart use of the field restrictions in the initial overs hitting over the top of the infield but can easily send the ball all the way.

Ryder will be a great investment for those franchisees who have not retained many players as they will need a quality opening batsmen in their squad. He might also come at an affordable price.

6. George Bailey – Australia

George Bailey

Base Price = 2 crore

The Australian is an ideal T20 middle order batsman. He has the ability to steer the ship in troubled waters and play the anchor role initially ensuring that a respectable total is attained. He also shields the designated power-hitters and while he is not exactly that, he can hit the big balls with great ease.

His big-hitting skills were on full display when he captained the ODI squad for the tour to India in 2013 where he bagged multiple hundreds. Bailey is predominantly a leg-side player but he is comfortable against spin bowling which is a rare quality in a non-sub-continent batsman. He is a leader on the field which is something to look at for the franchisees who are beginning from scratch.