Revealed: Why RCB did not go for Steve Smith at 2021 IPL Auction

Ever wondered, what was the Royal Challengers Bangalore’s strategy heading into the 2021 IPL auction? The RCB Bold Diaries brings to you a plethora of behind the scenes (BTS) content with respect to what went on in the background before the auction.

Australia star batsman, Steve Smith was heavily linked for his return to RCB prior to the auction on 18th February. Mike Hesson, Director of Cricket Operations, explained the tactical aspect of how they could make the best use of the auction.

“There’s a lot of talk out there (media) that we’re going to go for Steve Smith,” Mike Hesson stated on Bold Diaries.

Wasn’t Steve Smith an ideal choice for RCB? 

“Smith doesn’t bowl. Very clear. Whoever bats there (after Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers) has to be able to bowl. All the stats we’re doing are around batting, but they have to be a bowling option," Hesson said.

Mike Hesson's approach was phenomenal, a smart play at the auction of raising a bid right away made franchises to act really and that gave RCB the chance to sign a few overseas all-rounders later.

“Best thing we can do is make a bid early for Steve Smith, and get out. So if we can get somebody to buy somebody in that first round, it is a big win for us. I feel if we bid for him straight away, no one is going to let us get him for ₹2 crores,” the 46-year-old said.

What if RCB got Steve Smith for his base price?

“If we’re left with Steve Smith at ₹2 crores, it’s not the end of the world. When we look at risk-reward, it’s not a bad result. If we bid for him right away, no team would allow get him for ₹2 crores,” he added. 

A Mike Hesson challenge

“Okay, post-auction if Steve Smith goes for more than ₹4 crores, I’m going to have a nice meal with a couple of drinks, if he goes for more than ₹4 crores, I’ll pay. If less than you (RCB Management) pay,” he remarked.

If one really wants to know what the Hesson-style is all about, then it's pretty simple that our professor here doesn't just look at the game from one aspect, but he makes sure to explore every possible angle to get the best of results, and that's why he's one of the wittiest people in the gentleman's game.