Full List of Released and Retained Players by Kolkata Knight Riders Ahead of IPL 2024 Auction

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have set their sights on the upcoming IPL 2024 auction as they aim to rebuild their squad and make a strong comeback after finishing seventh in the previous season. With the goal of strengthening their fast-bowling department and finding balance and versatility in their batting core, KKR has made significant changes to their player roster. Let's take a closer look at the full list of players released and retained by the franchise.

Players Released

KKR has decided to part ways with several players who failed to make a significant impact in the previous season. Among the notable releases are all-rounders Shardul Thakur and Shakib al Hasan. Thakur, who was traded in from the Delhi Capitals for IPL 2023, couldn't quite live up to expectations. On the other hand, Shakib, a long-time associate of the franchise, struggled to contribute in crucial moments.

The New Zealand pace duo of Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson also found themselves out of favor with the team. Southee and Ferguson, known for their pace and ability to take wickets, failed to cement their positions in the playing XI. Additionally, Indian speedster Umesh Yadav and domestic star Kulwant Khejroliya were released, leaving KKR short in the fast-bowling department.

Here is the complete list of players released by KKR:

Shakib Al Hasan, Shardul Thakur, Lockie Ferguson, Umesh Yadav, Tim Southee, Johnson Charles, Litton Das, Aarya Desai, David Wiese, Narayan Jagadeesan, Mandeep Singh and Kulwant Khejroliya

Players Retained

Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Jason Roy, Sunil Narine, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Andre Russell, Venkatesh Iyer, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora and Varun Chakaravarthy

KKR has retained most of their core players, including the explosive West Indian duo of Andre Russell and Sunil Narine. Russell, known for his power-hitting and ability to win matches single-handedly, will continue to be a crucial player for the franchise. Narine, with his effective spin bowling and batting prowess, adds depth to the team's lineup.

The return of skipper Shreyas Iyer is a significant boost for KKR. Iyer, who missed the previous season due to injury, will provide leadership and stability to the team. Other retained players include Nitish Rana, Rinku Singh, Jason Roy, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Venkatesh Iyer, Harshit Rana, Vaibhav Arora, and Varun Chakaravarthy.

IPL 2024 Auction Strategy

With a remaining budget of ₹32.7 crore, KKR has one of the biggest available purses for the IPL 2024 auction. This gives them ample room to strengthen their squad and fill the four remaining overseas player slots. The franchise will be keen on finding quality overseas players who can make an immediate impact and contribute to the team's success.

Two players who could be on KKR's radar are the Australian World Cup-winning duo of Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. Both players have either played for the franchise previously or have been linked with them in the past. Their experience, skill, and ability to perform under pressure make them valuable assets for any team.

Conclusion

The Kolkata Knight Riders have made strategic decisions ahead of the IPL 2024 auction to revamp their squad and address their weaknesses. By releasing players who failed to deliver and retaining their core, including Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and skipper Shreyas Iyer, KKR aims to bounce back stronger in the upcoming season. With a significant budget at their disposal, the franchise will be looking to fill their remaining overseas player slots with impactful performers. It will be interesting to see how KKR shapes its team for IPL 2024 and whether they can reclaim their former glory.