The countdown has begun for the IPL 2024 Auction, where 10 teams will battle for the best players in the world. The auction will take place on December 19 in Dubai, the first time it is held outside India. The stakes are high, as each team has a limited purse and a maximum of 25 players to fill their squad.
But not all players are available for the auction. Some of the biggest names in cricket have been left out, either due to injury, poor form, or personal reasons. Here are some of the major absentees who will not feature in the IPL 2024 Auction:
- Jofra Archer: The England fast bowler, who was the MVP of IPL 2020, has been ruled out of the auction due to a stress fracture in his elbow. He has not played any cricket since March 2023 and is unlikely to return before mid-2024. His absence is a huge blow for Rajasthan Royals, who released him along with 10 other players.
- Kedar Jadhav: The veteran Indian all-rounder, who has played for Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, and Punjab Kings, has decided to retire from all forms of cricket. He announced his decision on social media, citing personal and family reasons. He thanked his fans and teammates for their support and wished them all the best for the future.
- Chris Woakes: The England all-rounder, who was part of the Delhi Capitals squad that won the IPL 2023 title, has opted out of the auction due to workload management. He said he wants to focus on his Test career and the upcoming Ashes series in Australia. He also expressed his gratitude to the Delhi Capitals franchise and fans for their faith and love.
- Mitchell Starc: The Australian pace spearhead, who has not played in the IPL since 2015, has once again withdrawn his name from the auction. He said he wants to spend more time with his family and prepare for the international assignments. He also revealed that he had received offers from several IPL teams, but declined them all.
- Steve Smith: The former Australian captain, who was released by Delhi Capitals after a disappointing IPL 2023 season, has also decided to skip the auction. He said he wants to take a break from cricket and focus on his mental health. He also apologized to his fans and said he hopes to return to the IPL in the future.
These are some of the star players who will not be part of the IPL 2024 Auction. However, there are still many other players who will be up for grabs, including some new faces and some old favourites. Who will be the most sought-after player in the auction? Who will be the biggest bargain? Who will be the surprise package? The answers will be revealed on December 19, when the IPL 2024 Auction will unfold in Dubai. Don’t miss it!
