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England’s batting maestro Joe Root recently withdrew from the upcoming IPL 2024 season. The unexpected move came just a day before the retention deadline and left fans and the Rajasthan Royals (RR) franchise in a contemplative mood as they bid adieu to a player who, despite limited opportunities, had managed to create a lasting impact in the previous season.
Root’s journey with RR and bond with teammates
Having been acquired by the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2023 auction for his base price of INR 1 crore, Root played a mere three games in the previous edition of the cash-rich league. But despite the limited chances to showcase his formidable batting skills, the former England captain’s camaraderie with the team and the bonds formed were evident.
Root particularly shared a great friendship with India and Rajasthan Royal’s spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. The duo’s shared moments off the field were often documented and posted on social media by the RR management and were not only cherished by the players but also by the fans.
Root’s surprise withdrawal
The decision of Root’s withdrawal from IPL 2024 was conveyed through an official statement on the franchise’s website, expressing respect for Root’s choice. The announcement came on the heels of another English cricket stalwart, Ben Stokes, opting out of the marquee event for workload management, leaving fans somewhat disheartened..
Also READ: Retention day for IPL 2024 – When and where to watch on TV; Live Streaming details
The Root-Chahal connection
What makes Root’s departure even more poignant is the special bond he shared with the Rajasthan Royals, particularly with Indian spinner Chahal. Root’s camaraderie with the team was not just restricted to the field, as he had forged a special connection with the Indian spinner both on and off the pitch.
Chahal’s heartfelt message for Root
Reacting to the news of Root’s withdrawal, Chahal took to Instagram to share his thoughts. In a heartfelt Instagram story, Chahal expressed his gratitude, posting an old video of the two cricketers enjoying a light-hearted moment during the previous IPL season.
The shared video depicted Root and Chahal shaking a leg together, revealing a different, more jovial side of these elite athletes, which had been a viral sensation during last year’s IPL.
“Thanks for everything Joe bhai,” wrote Chahal, accompanied by a heart emoji.
Chahal’s message not just perfectly encapsulated the respect he has for Root as a player but also acknowledged the personal connection they had developed during their time together with the Rajasthan Royals.
