Top 5 most expensive players whom IPL franchises bid adieu ahead of auction

As the IPL auction nears, the teams are busy planning for their budget. One smart move everyone is talking about is the "release and repurchase" of players in the IPL trading window. The tactic of shedding high-value players to free up resources for the auction table is not just a strategic move, it's a chess game where each piece represents an investment, a risk, and a potential reward, as a wrong and right move can make or break it for the IPL franchises for the next season. As franchises get ready for the IPL auctions, the stage is set for a thrilling IPL 2024 season.

1. Ben Stokes (CSK/16.25 Cr)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) were in the headlines by securing the services of the English all-rounder Ben Stokes for a whopping 16.25 crore rupees. The anticipation and the expectations from the all-rounder were sky high, but the returns were meager – just 15 runs across two matches and an expensive over.

Stokes' injury-prone history coupled with lackluster on-field performance prompted CSK to release him, sparking discussions about the value of such a hefty investment and prompting to go with a better option in the auction.

2. Harry Brook (SRH/13.25 Cr)

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) placed a considerable bet on Harry Brook, eyeing a promising addition to their squad given his scinillaing debut in the international arena in both white and red ball. However, Brook's debut season failed to match the expectations set by his hefty price tag of 13.25 crore rupees. Despite a notable century, his overall performance, struggling against spin, left SRH questioning the return on their significant investment.

3. Shardul Thakur (KKR/10.75 Cr)

Shardul Thakur, with an illustrious history in the IPL, faced a challenging stint with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2023. Known for impactful performances, Thakur's contributions were limited, scoring just 113 runs and managing only seven wickets. His lackluster form failed to inspire KKR to playoff glory, leaving them languishing at the bottom of the points table.

4. Wanindu Hasaranga (RCB/10.75 Cr)

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) made a strong bid for Wanindu Hasaranga, banking on his spin prowess. Despite his T20 World Cup hattrick, injuries and inconsistent performances hampered his impact in the IPL. While his potential was evident, Hasaranga's struggles to maintain economic spells at crucial junctures contributed to RCB's decision against retaining him.

5. Harshal Patel (RCB/10.75 Cr)

The return of Harshal Patel to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) after an impressive previous season raised hopes among the huge fanbase of RCB as they have always struggled with their bowling especially in the death overs.

Known for his prowess with the ball, Patel, nicknamed "Purple Patel," clinched the Purple Cap in the 2021 IPL and became famous for his slower balls in the death overs. However, his fortunes reversed in the 2023 edition as his economy rate soared close to 10, a far cry from his previous impactful performances.