The anticipation surrounding the IPL 2024 auction reached its peak as franchises unveiled their release and retention lists on November 26, 2023. While some players found themselves out of favor due to underwhelming performances, others faced the axe despite limited opportunities or injury setbacks.
Related: CSK to Aim for These Players in the IPL 2024 Auction
Let’s delve into the story of one unlucky player from each team who bid farewell to their respective franchises ahead of the mini-auction in Dubai.
1. Rajasthan Royals – Obed McCoy
In the 2022 mega auction, Rajasthan Royals secured the services of West Indies’ left-arm pacer Obed McCoy for INR 75 lakh. Despite a promising debut season, where he picked up 11 wickets in seven matches, McCoy found himself on the sidelines for most of the 2023 season. Given only one over in his solitary appearance, McCoy failed to make an impact, leading to his exclusion from RR’s plans for 2024. His struggles extended to the Caribbean Premier League, further sealing his fate in the release list.
2. Delhi Capitals – Phil Salt
Delhi Capitals invested INR 2 crore in England batter Phil Salt during the 2023 auction. While Salt showed glimpses of his potential, including a brilliant 87-run knock against Royal Challengers Bangalore, his overall contribution fell short. With 218 runs in nine matches at an average of 27.25, Salt failed to secure his spot in DC’s roster for IPL 2024. The Capitals’ decision reflects their emphasis on a well-rounded squad capable of sustained excellence.
3. Punjab Kings – Bhanuka Rajapaksa
Bhanuka Rajapaksa, the dynamic Sri Lankan middle-order batter, had a stellar 2022 season with Punjab Kings, amassing 206 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 159.69. However, an unfortunate elbow injury limited him to only four matches in the 2023 season, resulting in a meager 71 runs. Despite his previous heroics, Punjab Kings chose to release him, emphasizing the need for a fit and consistent playing XI.
4. Lucknow Super Giants – Daniel Sams
Lucknow Super Giants secured the services of Australian pacer Daniel Sams for INR 75 lakh in the 2023 auction but surprisingly never fielded him during the entire season. Sams, a proven wicket-taker in the Big Bash League, remained benched, and his exclusion from LSG’s 2024 retention list was inevitable. The decision raises questions about the team’s utilization of resources and the criteria for player selection.
5. Gujarat Titans – Shivam Mavi
Gujarat Titans made a significant investment, paying INR 6 crore for the services of Shivam Mavi in the 2023 IPL auction. Despite the hefty price tag, Mavi never found a place in the playing XI. The team’s reliance on other pacers and Mavi’s consistent exclusion led to his release ahead of the 2024 auction. Gujarat Titans’ decision underscores the challenges of balancing a squad and ensuring optimal utilization of players.
6. Chennai Super Kings – Kyle Jamieson
New Zealand paceman Kyle Jamieson, acquired by Chennai Super Kings for INR 1 crore in 2023, faced the unfortunate setback of a back injury before the season commenced. With replacements performing admirably, Jamieson’s absence didn’t impact CSK’s title defense. Despite his proven potential, CSK opted to release him for the 2024 edition, showcasing their commitment to a well-conditioned and fit squad.
7. Mumbai Indians – Jhye Richardson
Mumbai Indians, missing Jasprit Bumrah due to injury, faced additional challenges with Jhye Richardson sidelined with a hamstring injury in the 2023 season. Richardson, a key investment for INR 1.5 crore, endured a tough year, missing crucial competitions. Mumbai Indians, known for their astute decision-making, chose to part ways with Richardson, signaling a focus on a fully fit and impactful bowling unit for the upcoming season.
8. Kolkata Knight Riders – Shakib Al Hasan
Kolkata Knight Riders bid farewell to Bangladesh’s seasoned all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who was initially picked up for INR 1.5 crore in the previous auction. Despite Shakib’s wealth of experience and past contributions, KKR released him due to his unavailability for the IPL, citing international commitments. The decision highlights the challenges franchises face in managing player schedules and availability.
9. Sunrisers Hyderabad – Adil Rashid
Sunrisers Hyderabad’s release of Adil Rashid raised eyebrows, especially after the English spinner showcased his skills in the limited opportunities he received during the 2023 season. Rashid’s economical spells and key wickets weren’t enough to secure a spot in the XI, ultimately leading to his release. Sunrisers’ decision prompts speculation about their spin-bowling strategy and plans for the upcoming auction.
10. Royal Challengers Bangalore – Josh Hazlewood
The release of Josh Hazlewood, a standout performer in the 2023 World Cup, surprised many RCB supporters. Despite Hazlewood’s significant role in Australia’s title victory, RCB opted for his release to boost their buying power in the auction. The decision, influenced by Hazlewood’s expected absence in the first half of the 2024 IPL due to personal reasons, sheds light on the delicate balance franchises must strike between performance and player availability.
