'It can also backfire' - AB de Villiers opens up on RCB releasing Harshal Patel and Wanindu Hasaranga ahead of IPL 2024

Former RCB batting stalwart AB de Villiers recently opened up about the release of Wanindu Hasaranga and Harshal Patel during IPL 2024 retentions. Notably, both the star bowlers were released from RCB, which helped his side to raise a 21.5 crore fund. Notably, Harshal Patel, owing to his form, wasn't part of the Team India squad for long.

However, Wanindu Hasaranga, who led his side to become the champions in LPL 2023, got injured ahead of the Asia Cup, which makes him miss the  Asia Cup 2023 and the ODI World Cup 2023 despite his lethal form.

The former South African batter, AB de Villers, feels that RCB can again buy these two players in the auction. However, the legendary cricketer feels that the newly appointed coach, Andy Flower, might have news plans for the teams, which include the release of  Harshal Patel and Wanindu Hasaranga.

RCB paid lump sum for Harshal and Hasaranga, releasing them will free up the purse: AB de Villiers

"RCB paid a lump sum for them (Harshal and Hasaranga) and releasing them will free up the purse. This is where the scouting will come in and the pool of players they are looking at. They might also go back into the auction and buy both of them, but it can also backfire.  Mr. Flower seems to have some plans up his sleeve and this seems one of them," AB de Villiers said.

However, the former Proteas skipper wants to see young batter Brevis in RCB, but he is not sure whether MI will release him or not. Moreover, the great cricketer feels MI won't be releasing him owing to his great form.

"I would love that (Brevis to RCB). I think the Chinnaswamy pitch will suit him to the T. I don't know whether Mumbai will release him because I know they have roped in a number of young players looking long term. So it wouldn't make sense for them to release them because they will be a part of their dream team in few years' time," he added further.