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IPL 2024: Top Five Expensive Players Released By Franchises Ahead Of The December 19 Auction In Dubai

Yuvaraja Karunakaran

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IPL 2024 Retention and Trade Window

With the IPL 2024 auction drawing closer, franchise owners are working diligently to devise strategies that will enable them to increase their financial resources. One of the key tactics that has emerged is the release and repurchase gambit. However, this manoeuvre is not without its risks. The recent retention and release window closure saw many high-profile names released by their respective franchises. One notable absentee from this list is the dynamic Ben Stokes, who is unable to participate due to workload and injury management. His absence adds to the intrigue surrounding the upcoming auction.

Given his high value, seeing Stokes on the released list was not unexpected. This marks a departure from his on-field exploits that often define IPL seasons. Shedding high-value players to free up resources for the auction demands a careful balance, presenting both opportunities and pitfalls for franchises. As teams seek to optimize their squad compositions within financial constraints, there is a pervasive sense of excitement and anticipation in the pre-auction context as the allure of reshuffling squads and acquiring fresh talent takes hold.

1. Ben Stokes (CSK/16.25 Cr) - A Pricey gamble that didn't pay off

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) made a significant investment by signing English all-rounder Ben Stokes for over 16 crore rupees. Despite high expectations, Stokes' performance fell short, scoring just 15 runs across two matches and conceding 18 runs in a single over. His limited impact raised concerns about the value of such a sizable investment, especially given his injury-prone history. Ultimately, CSK decided to release him from the team. This outcome highlights the importance of carefully assessing high-priced acquisitions' potential value and associated risks.

2. Harry Brook (SRH/13.25 Cr) - Struggling to match expectations

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) invested in Harry Brook, a highly promising addition to their squad. However, Brook's debut season failed to meet the expectations set by his considerable price tag of 13.25 crore rupees. Though he exhibited flashes of talent with a notable century, his overall performance fell short. Brook struggled against spin and concluded the season with an average of 21.11 and a strike rate of 123.38. Regrettably, his contributions did not align with the significant investment that SRH had made.

3. Shardul Thakur (KKR/10.75 Cr) - Struggles of a seasoned campaigner

With a rich history of impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Shardul Thakur faced a challenging phase during his stint with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2023. Despite being known for his ability to impact the game significantly, Thakur's contributions were limited as he scored only 113 runs in 11 innings and took just seven wickets with the ball. His lacklustre form proved a stumbling block for KKR, as they failed to qualify for the playoffs, remaining at the bottom of the points table.

4. Wanindu Hasaranga (RCB/10.75 Cr) - A Mixed bag of potential and setbacks

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) displayed a strong interest in acquiring the services of Wanindu Hasaranga, a player renowned for his spin bowling capabilities. Despite his impressive hattrick performance in the T20 World Cup, his contributions in the IPL were limited by injuries and inconsistent displays. While Hasaranga's potential was evident, his inability to maintain economic spells at crucial stages influenced RCB's decision not to retain him.

5. Harshal Patel (RCB/10.75 Cr) - A thrilling story of contrasting fortunes!

Harshal Patel's return to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) after a commendable season with another franchise raised the hopes of the ardent followers of the team. Patel, known for his bowling skills and nicknamed "Purple Patel", had clinched the coveted Purple Cap in the 2021 IPL. However, his fortunes worsened in the 2023 edition as his economy rate skyrocketed to nearly 10, a far cry from his previous impactful performances.