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[Saba Sports News] As the anticipation builds for the IPL 2024 auction, all eyes are focused on the last-minute trades and retention decisions by franchises. The deadline for submitting the retention list is set for November 26, with the auction scheduled for December 19.
Reports suggest a historic trade might be in the making as two team captains contemplate a shuffle that could take everyone by surprise.
At the center of this fervor stands the five-time IPL champions and reigning titleholders, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), led by MS Dhoni. Armed with a significant purse of around INR 30 crore, CSK is poised to enter the auction after strategically releasing several key players from their roster.
Among the notable departures from the CSK camp are the dynamic all-rounder Ben Stokes (INR 16.25 crore), who, citing the need to manage workload and fitness, opted out of IPL 2024. Additionally, the retired Ambati Rayudu (INR 6.5 crore), Dwaine Pretorius (INR 50 lakh), Sisanda Magala (INR 1 crore), and Kyle Jamieson (INR 1 crore) will bid farewell to the yellow brigade.
Notably, several franchises are expected to release players as they strategically plan for the mini IPL auction in 2024. Franchise owners are aiming to create room for a more substantial purse by parting ways with some big names this year.
Potential releases from other teams include Punjab Kings’ Sam Curran, acquired for a hefty price INR 18.5 crore in the last auction, making him the most expensive player in league history. Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Harry Brook and Kolkata Knight Riders’ pacers Tim Southee and Lockie Ferguson are also speculated to be on the release list.