IPL Teams announced the list of retained and released players on Sunday. It was a list that was packed with surprises. Usually, Indian cricketers, especially those who are actively contracted with BCCI, are deemed as assets. However, a few such cricketers were recently released by their respective outfits. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of three BCCI contracted players who were released before the IPL 2024 Auctions.
1) Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur is a big name that comes on this list. Let alone the BCCI contract, Shardul was a part of the Indian Team that reached the finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup. Yet, he has been released by KKR.
However, this was always coming considering his form in the T20 format. Also, his salary was high and the new track at Eden Gardens might not support him. He is an experienced name and a few franchises would surely get behind him at the auctions.
2) KS Bharat
KS Bharat did not play a single game for Gujarat Titans last season. Hence, naturally, he has been released by the winners of IPL 2022.
There is a demand for domestic wicket-keepers in the IPL. KS Bharat is a decent cricketer and he can do well in a tournament if he can get a run of a few games. Teams like KKR might want a top-order batter who is also a good wicket-keeper. Hence, they can pick the Indian Test cricketer.
3) Umesh Yadav
Umesh Yadav is one of the BCCI contracted players who were released before the IPL 2024 Auctions. The Vidharba cricketer is also currently contracted with the BCCI. His release was always on the cards because of his displays last season.
Nevertheless, Umesh has been decent in the recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Considering his impact with the new ball, he could get a team in the auctions.
