The IPL 2025 auction is just around the corner and 574 players have registered for the event. Among them is Nitish Rana, who has set his base price at Rs 1.50 crore.

Nitish is known for his ability to handle all types of spin effectively and has consistently delivered good performances in the IPL. As a left-handed batsman, he adds significant value to any team, and his useful off-spin bowling further enhances his abilities.

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Bought by KKR in 2018 for INR 3.4 crore, Nitish played 90 matches for them and scored 2,199 runs. However, ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, KKR decided to release him after retaining six players. Without the Right to Match (RTM) option, other franchises are now in a position to bid for him. Given his proven track record and all-around abilities, several teams are likely to target him in the upcoming auction.

Let’s take a look at the 4 teams that will target Nitish Rana in the IPL 2025 auction.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

CSK have retained five players, with Ruturaj Gaikwad being the only one in the team who is likely to play in the top order. This leaves CSK in need of another experienced batsman to strengthen their top order or top middle order and help anchor the innings.

Given his ability to handle spin bowling effectively, Nitish Rana could be a valuable addition to CSK, especially considering Chepauk’s spin-friendly bowling. His anti-spin skills could provide the team with much-needed depth in their batting line-up.

Rajasthan Royals (RR)

RR might consider targeting Nitish Rana in the upcoming auction. The team has retained six players and with Sanju Samson’s recent form, he could move into the starting position, leaving a gap in the number three position. Nitish Rana’s skills make him a strong candidate to fill that position effectively.

Rana’s ability to handle spin well would make him a valuable asset, particularly in Rajasthan’s top order. A potential batting lineup of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Nitish Rana and Riyan Parag could provide RR with solid depth and a balanced attack for the upcoming season.

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Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)

RCB has retained only three players in the auction, with Virat Kohli set to open the batting and Rajat Patidar likely to bat at number three or four. This leaves one seat vacant in either position, and Nitish Rana could be a strong contender for the position. His ability to handle spin effectively, combined with Chinnaswamy’s short boundaries, would suit his style of play.

Rana’s versatility allows him to play an anchor role and attack when necessary, allowing him to adapt to different match situations. Furthermore, his bowling adds additional value to the team, making him a potential key player for RCB in the upcoming season.

Calcutta Knights Riders (KKR)

Knight Riders have kept their bowling unit and lower middle order intact by retaining Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Harshit Rana and Varun Chakravarthy.

However, they had to release all their top-order batsmen including Nitish Rana. As a result, they will look to fill the opener’s spot and strengthen the top middle order of their batting line-up.

With the release of Shreyas Iyer, KKR will also need to find a new face for the captaincy role. Rana, with his experience and ability to perform in crucial positions, could be a strong candidate to fill both needs. KKR is very likely to target him in the auction.

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