CRICKET
Three players RCB might release before IPL auctions 2024
RCB has the history of making wrong decisions at the auction table. The Bangalore-based franchise is one of the most popular franchises in the history of the league. But the decision making at the top level has not often been that good. Under Mike Hesson, RCB made some good decisions. Now that RCB is no more associated with him, the decision making might be different.
RCB revolves around its star players like Virat Kohli, Faf Du Plessis, Glenn Maxwell. The team is built around them, which makes them one of the most followed teams in the world across all sports. Ahead of the IPL auctions 2024, RCB might be looking at different options. The three-time runner ups of the league might be looking at some of the most talented players available at the auctions.
Here are three players RCB might release ahead of the IPL auctions 2024.
3. Wanindu Hasaranga
Wanindu Hasaranga has been one of the best performers in T20 leagues across the globe. The Sri Lankan spin bowler has been known for his wicket taking abilities, irrespective of the nature of pitches. As an orthodox leg spinner, Hasaranga can make it to any side in the world due to his skill sets as a bowler. But Hasaranga becomes more valuable with his abilities to bat as well.
In recent years, Hasaranga has added captaincy to his belt. In the Lanka Premier League, Hasaranga led his team to a title win. RCB brought him in the IPL auctions 2021 for the second half. He was released and brought again for a much highest sum in 2022. Despite performing well, the Sri Lankan spin bowling All-rounder might be released by RCB due to his injuries lately and a huge price tag he has for himself.
2. Dinesh Karthik
Dinesh Karthik has almost reached saturation with his role. The former Indian wicketkeeper batter is no more a player who is regularly in touch with cricket. Karthik is more of a commentator who plays cricket during the domestic and the IPL season. The lack of game time might be an issue, given how competitive the IPL is. In the recent past, Karthik has been in a terrible form as both wicketkeeper and batter.
Karthik had a memorable season as a finisher for RCB in 2022. That was probably the last season he looked at his best form. In 2023, Karthik was poor as both wicketkeeper and batter. Despite having a brilliant top 3, RCB failed to make it to the playoffs of the season due to poor finishers. Karthik was one of them. With age not on his side and better options at the auctions, RCB might be looking to release him.
1. Harshal Patel
Harshal Patel by nature is a medium pacer. The right-arm pacer’s success over the years can be attributed to his skills like slower ones and cutters. Harshal played most of his career on pitches like Delhi, and those in the UAE, where the bowlers found success using their variations. One of the reasons behind Harshal’s sensational year for RCB in 2021 was due to the nature of pitches in the UAE an in India.
Harshal played mostly in slow pitches, where the bowlers had some assistance. In 2022, Harshal gave a good performance for RCB despite not much in the tracks for the slow medium pacers. In 2023, Harshal played for the first time in Bengaluru. The wicket is known as a nightmare for bowlers. In Bengaluru, Harshal could not adapt to the conditions. With a huge price tag on his back, Harshal might be released by RCB to get better players.