The overseas players have always been a focal point in the Indian Premier League (IPL), with teams investing heavily to secure top talent. As the cricketing world now eagerly awaits the IPL 2024 player’s auction, franchises are gearing up to make strategic moves to strengthen their squads.
However, with the need to make room for new players and manage their budgets, several franchises are poised to release some high-profile overseas players as well. On that note, let’s take a closer look at five players who might find themselves on the auction block ahead of the IPL 2024 season.
5 overseas players set to be released by their franchises
1. Harry Brook (Sunrisers Hyderabad)
Sunrisers Hyderabad made a significant investment in Harry Brook during the IPL 2023 auction, securing him for a whopping 13.25 crores. Despite an impressive century in his debut season, Brook’s overall performance fell short of expectations, managing just 190 runs in 11 matches at an average of 21.11. The franchise might opt to release him to explore other player options and better manage their budget for the upcoming season.
2. Tim Southee (Kolkata Knight Riders)
KKR acquired Tim Southee for 1.5 crore in the previous auction, but the New Zealand pacer had a modest outing with no wickets in two matches. The team is now likely to focus on acquiring a reliable Indian pacer, leading to Southee’s potential release. This move aims to bolster the local talent pool and address any weaknesses in the fast-bowling department.
3. Sam Curran (Punjab Kings)
As the costliest buy of the IPL 2023, Sam Curran faced high expectations but couldn’t deliver the desired results. Although he contributed with both bat and ball, taking 10 wickets and scoring 276 runs, the Punjab Kings might reconsider his hefty price tag. Releasing Curran could provide an opportunity to secure him at a more reasonable cost in the upcoming auction, allowing the team to reallocate funds strategically.
4. Lockie Ferguson (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Lockie Ferguson, acquired for a hefty 10 crores, struggled to make an impact in the IPL 2023 season, managing just one wicket in three matches. KKR might opt to part ways with Ferguson to secure a more effective and economical pacer in the upcoming auction. This strategic move aligns with the team’s goal of building a well-balanced and competitive squad.
5. Sunil Narine (Kolkata Knight Riders)
A long-time integral part of the KKR setup, Sunil Narine has faced challenges in recent seasons, contributing just 92 runs and 19 wickets in the last two editions. Priced at 6 crores, KKR might release Narine to make room for a promising Indian spinner in the upcoming auction. This decision reflects the team’s commitment to rejuvenating its spin-bowling options.
Special Mention:
Ben Stokes (Chennai Super Kings)
Despite being bought for a hefty 16.25 crores, Ben Stokes played only two matches for CSK in the previous season, scoring just 15 runs without taking a wicket. Stokes has voluntarily pulled out of the tournament to manage his workload, parting ways with CSK. This move provides CSK with an opportunity to strategize and make calculated signings in the upcoming auction.
