Not Sunil Narine or Andre Russell! KKR to release three-star players ahead of IPL 2024 mini-auction

The IPL 2024 auction, which is set to begin in Dubai on December 10, is drawing near. IPL teams are finishing up their rosters of players who have been retained and dismissed as the trade window closes on November 26. It was speculated that the legendary all-rounder Andre Russell of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) may be released. But according to the latest sources, the two-time IPL champions are probably going to keep Russell and instead release three well-known pacers.

3 things you need to know 

• KKR have lifted IPL twice in the history of the tournament so far 
• Gautam Gambhir returned to KRR as a mentor for the IPL 2024
• Chennai Super Kings are the champions of the IPL 2023 

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Which players might KKR release to keep Russell?

Cricbuzz reports that KKR is planning to release Shardul Thakur, who was acquired from Delhi Capitals for a substantial sum of Rs 10 crore prior to the IPL 2023 auction. Despite participating in eleven matches, Thakur amassed 168 runs with the bat and captured only seven wickets.

KKR is thinking about parting ways with the New Zealand pace tandem of Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson, in addition to Thakur. Ferguson, who was acquired from the Gujarat Titans prior to the IPL 2023 auction, appeared in only three matches, accumulating one wicket at a rate eclipsing 12 percent. Southee was costly in both of his contests, allowing runs at an economy rate of over 13 runs per over.

Significant personnel adjustments have been made at KKR, including the return of two-time IPL champion and team mentor Gautam Gambhir, who departed from his position with the Lucknow Super Giants.

Sam Curran, the highest-paid player in IPL auction history, is also being considered for release by Punjab Kings, according to a report by Cricbuzz. Similarly, Sunrisers Hyderabad are deliberating on the release of Harry Brook. In the interim, the Chennai Super Kings have confirmed that Ben Stokes will miss the IPL 2024 due to injury management and exertion concerns.

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When will IPL 2024 start?

Furthermore, according to the report, IPL 2024 is anticipated to begin in mid-March, subsequent to the conclusion of the India vs. England series on March 11.