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

5. Brendon McCullum – New Zealand

Brendon McCullum

Base Price = 2 crore

McCullum shares an intimate relationship with the Indian Premier league. He lit up the platform with an unforgettable knock of 158 runs in the opening match of the inaugural edition against Royal Challengers Bangalore. The Kiwi is going through a period of rejuvenation as he leads the national side through a revival. His confidence is touching the skies and his leadership skills would be welcome to any franchisee.

His versatility with the bat must be mentioned. He can bat as an opener targeting the first line of attack to exploit the field restrictions, he can anchor the middle order or perform the role of the big-hitting match winner coming lower down the order. One expects a bidding war over his name when the auctions begin.

4. Aaron Finch – Australia

Aaron Finch

Base Price = 1 crore

Finch was a part of the unfortunate Pune Warriors franchisee in the last edition and even as their campaign miserably flagged, the swashbuckling opener made his mark with a couple of outstanding knocks. He has since made his entry into the national side with great distinction.

Finch is a evidently a player of limited capabilities but he seems to have gained a maturity that shows in his shot selection, his patience against the new ball which is allowing him to play longer, match winning innings.

The likes of Chris Gayle and David Warner have proved that a potent opener is the best weapon in a T20 side and Finch seems to have the credentials to emulate them.

3. Corey Anderson – New Zealand

Corey Anderson

Base Price = 1 crore

The left-handed all-rounder is cricket’s most recent indulgence. He broke the long-standing fastest century record of Shahid Afridi by smashing a ton of just 36 balls. He is an equally talented bowler which means that he has the most to offer in the upcoming auctions.

The media has already tipped him to the biggest catch in the upcoming auctions even though his base price is 1 crore. His lack of international experience will not cause any hesitation as his performances against the West Indies and India have amply demonstrated his area of strengths.

He can play the kind of role that Kieron Pollard plays for Mumbai Indians. He gets going from the very first ball which is an advantage in a 20-over format where every dot ball can make a drastic difference to the equation. Anderson might not be able to target all parts of the ground but when you have power and wit to assist you, big shots can be manufactured.