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KKR IPL 2023 (Source: Twitter)
As the Player Auction for the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches, all 10 franchises are planning their strategies to build a formidable squad. Two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have had a poor outing in IPL 2023, finishing seventh in the points table. Hence, they will focus more on preparing for their comeback in the upcoming season.
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Shreyas Iyer, who missed the last edition due to injury, is expected to lead the team in IPL 2024. Meanwhile, the Kolkata-based franchise has roped in their former captain Gautam Gambhir for the role of team mentor. In this article, we take a look at 4 overseas KKR players who might be released ahead of the IPL 2024 player auction.
Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Lockie Ferguson, Tim Southee, David Weise, Litton Das and Jason Roy are the eight foreigners who represented KKR in the 2023 edition. The Player Auction for the 17th edition of the cash-rich league will be held on December 19 in Dubai.
4. David Wiese (Namibia)
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Despite the price tag of 1 crore, David Wiese could not make a mark in the 2023 IPL season. The Namibian all-rounder went wicketless in three matches. KKR may let go of the 38-year-old and invest in a more impactful all-rounder to bolster their squad.
3. Litton Das (Bangladesh)
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The Bangladesh opening batter, who was acquired for 50 lakhs, was not worth buying for KKR. He managed to score only four runs in a single match before returning home due to family reasons. It wouldn't be surprising if the franchise opted to release him before the auction.
2. Tim Southee (New Zealand)
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Tim Southee was acquired by KKR for 1.5 crore and a lot of expectations. However, the veteran Kiwi pacer has had a modest campaign in IPL 2023, picking up just two wickets from two matches. The franchise may release the 34-year-old ahead of the auction to fill his place with a potential game-changer.
1. Lockie Ferguson (New Zealand)
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Speedster Lockie Ferguson is another New Zealand player who could be at risk. Despite bagging a Rs 10 crore signing, Ferguson had a disappointing IPL 2023 season, picking up just one wicket in three matches. These stats may prompt the former champions to release the Kiwi quick and add another impact bowler to their line-up.