IPL 2024 Retention: Buttler Stays, Archer Released, Root and Stokes Opt Out
In a flurry of player retention decisions ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) season, Rajasthan Royals held on to England’s white-ball captain Jos Buttler while Mumbai Indians parted ways with Jofra Archer.
England batter Joe Root, along with test captain Ben Stokes, has decided to skip the 10-team T20 league, prioritizing rest and recovery after a demanding workload that included three matches in their IPL debuts for Rajasthan.
READ MORE: IPL 2024 Retention Day: Top Transfers And Rumours
Mumbai’s decision to release Archer, who is currently nursing an elbow injury, raised eyebrows as the franchise seeks to rebuild their squad for the next season. The pacer’s absence from England’s white-ball tour of West Indies next month further highlights the seriousness of his injury.
Meanwhile, former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is set to continue leading Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2024, much to the delight of the franchise’s passionate fanbase. Dhoni’s retention signals the five-time champions’ unwavering faith in their veteran skipper.
Delhi Capitals, for their part, retained Rishabh Pant, who has been on the sidelines since a horrific car accident last December. The franchise’s decision reflects their belief in Pant’s ability to bounce back and regain his form.
READ MORE: Ben Stokes to miss IPL 2024
Royal Challengers Bangalore, still in pursuit of their maiden IPL title, hinted at a potential overhaul of their bowling attack by releasing Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, Australia’s Josh Hazlewood, Englishman David Willey, and South African Wayne Parnell.
Punjab Kings, on the other hand, opted to retain England all-rounder Sam Curran, whose hefty $2.22 million contract with the franchise last year made him the league’s most expensive player at the time.
Australian cricket heavyweights Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc have made themselves available for the IPL auction, scheduled for December 19 in Dubai. Their return to the league promises to add further star power to the already exciting competition.
As the IPL gears up for another season, the retention decisions have set the stage for an intriguing auction and a thrilling tournament filled with cricketing fireworks.
