IPL 2024 Auction: Why KKR will fight Delhi Capitals for Rilee Rossouw? Know the Reason

As the IPL 2024 auction approaches at a rapid pace, the teams are readying themselves for the battle to ensure optimum strategy at the auction table on December 19.

There are many subplots of the auction day which may unfold, as the teams will be aiming to bolster their arsenal for the upcoming edition in 2024. And one of the key battles of the war may well be between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Reports are suggesting Kolkata Knight Riders are in for Rilee Rossouw, the 34-year-old South African batter. Rossouw has been a decent player for the Proteas in the T20 format and is one of the most hard-hitting players in the world.

The South African was picked up by Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2023 auction for INR 4.6 crore, but has found himself released ahead of the 2024 auction. He will go under the hammer but feelings in the player's camp suggest he will have at least a suitor for him.

Delhi Capitals are likely to come back for their old employee, maybe at a lower price, but they will have to shrug off Kolkata Knight Riders to land their target.

Why KKR may bid for Rilee Rossouw in IPL 2024 Auction?

KKR do have some decent players in their ranks, but they lack any middle-order overseas batter in their team. Rilee Rossouw will be a perfect player for them to blow away in the middle of their batting lineup. He fits the bill for a player who has artilleries to counter or steer the batting according to the situation. Hence the KKR management is keen on the Proteas batter.

There is another compelling reason why KKR want Rossouw, and that is the franchise connection. Rossouw plays for Trinbago Knight Riders in the CPL, and LA Knight Riders in the MLC, hence a KKR representation is a top priority for both the player and the franchise. Hence KKR bidding for Rossouw is not a shocker at all.