As cricket fans gear up for the intense auction battles for the Indian Premier League’s 2024 season, all ten franchises have finalized the lists of retained and released players. One of the most headline-worthy developments involves the Mumbai Indians securing the return of all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who is set to leave the Gujarat Titans after leading them for two seasons.
The veteran, who brought significant value to GT during his tenure, makes a sensational return to the team with which he first made his name. His departure marks a significant shift for GT as they move forward with Shubman Gill appointed to captain the squad. Moreover, the Gujarat-based team has undergone further roster changes, parting ways with players like Yash Dayal and Shivam Mavi, among others.
Meanwhile, Mumbai’s strokemaking and strategy for the forthcoming season seem invigorated with the trade of Australian all-rounder Cameron Green to Royal Challengers Bangalore. The team also welcomes Romario Shepherd from Lucknow Super Giants, adding depth to their already impressive lineup.
Despite uncertainty about his return to play, Delhi Capitals have chosen to hold onto their wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant, a clear indication of the team’s confidence in his recovery and value to the squad.
The Rajasthan Royals have maintained a core group including captain Sanju Samson and influential players such as Jos Buttler and Shimron Hetmyer. The Royals traded Avesh Khan, releasing international talent like Joe Root and Jason Holder, reflecting a strategic tweaking of their roster.
For the Punjab Kings, retention of players seems to center around key international and domestic talent, including captain Shikhar Dhawan and England’s Liam Livingstone. Let go are names like Shahrukh Khan and Bhanuka Rajapaksa, indicating a thoughtful recalibration of their on-field strategy.
Chennai Super Kings, under the leadership of the iconic MS Dhoni, retain a solid combination of experience and young talent, with noteworthy players like Moeen Ali and Deepak Chahar staying on board. The substantial release list includes England’s Ben Stokes and Dwaine Pretorius, hinting at a strategic approach to restructuring the squad.
Kolkata Knight Riders have kept faith with players like Nitish Rana and Shreyas Iyer, while releasing a number of players, including Shakib Al Hasan and Lockie Ferguson. This suggests a focus on maintaining a core with the potential for bolstering through new additions in the auction.
Sunrisers Hyderabad have released a few names like Harry Brook and Akeal Hosein, but their retained list shows confidence in a group that includes Aiden Markram as captain and the pace sensation Umran Malik.
Lucknow Super Giants have also made substantial changes, releasing Jaydev Unadkat along with others, but keeping a strong base with KL Rahul at the helm.
The Royal Challengers Bangalore have parted ways with several key players, including Wanindu Hasaranga and Harshal Patel, making room for new acquisitions to shake up their squad composition.
As the auction draws nearer, the final rosters signify a diverse range of strategies heading into the tournament, with teams retaining their cores while also seeking fresh talent to strengthen their challenges. Each franchise will now focus on their strategies for the auction, eyeing domestic and international players that can add the perfect balance to their teams for the IPL 2024.