The 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 could change the dynamics of many teams with franchisees only allowed to retain up to a maximum of five players (combination of player retention and right-to-match). Hence, teams are making strategies to finalize their players they would want to retain before the auction.
The final list needs to be submitted by 4th January as the auction is slated for 28th and 29th of the same month.
As per media reports, Kolkata Knight Riders captain Gautam Gambhir may not be retained by the franchise. They will retain the services of all-rounder Sunil Narine, who was one of their best players in 2017. Andre Russell, who returns to mainstream cricket after a year-long ban, is also likely to be picked by KKR franchise.
It was only recently, where Gambhir revealed that he has not talked to his team management about retention and the left-hander is willing to play for other teams in IPL 2018.
“It is very surprising that I have not spoken to anyone (in KKR management). I don’t know about myself [future with KKR]. We’ll probably sit and talk after the Ranji final. But yes I am [open to playing for another franchise],” Gambhir said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.
He added, “You have achieved so much for KKR. You have done whatever you could. If things do not work out in future, the good part is that you are leaving a franchise on a good note, when it has become a successful franchise. Not when you were struggling.
“As a professional, you want different challenges. There is nothing wrong with it. That’ll keep you motivated and hungry.”
Gambhir moved to a struggling Kolkata Knight Riders franchise in the fourth edition of the IPL, built a strong core and helped them win two IPL titles. After playing for the Men in Purple for seven seasons, Gambhir has already expressed his desire to play for some other franchise in the future, especially, his home team Delhi Daredevils.
