These big names were not retained by their teams ahead of IPL 2019 auction.
With IPL 2019 auction scheduled next month, all eight Indian Premier League franchises released the names of players retained, traded and released on Thursday. While some teams retained the core of their side, some went for a complete overhaul.
Yuvraj Singh and Gautam Gambhir were among the big names released from their IPL contracts. But there were other stars who did not make it to the squad.
Here are some of the big names not retained by their teams ahead of IPL 2019 auction:
1. Yuvraj Singh
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Yuvraj Singh was one of the biggest names released by any IPL team in this transfer window. Yuvraj was let go by the Kings XI Punjab after a middling season last year where he scored just 65 runs at an average of 10.38 in eight games. Yuvi, known for destructive ability wth bat, is at the twilight of his career and seems a shadow of former self. Fitness is also an issue for the 36-year old. (Image: PTI)
2. Gautam Gambhir
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Delhi Daredevils dispensed with Gambhir after just one year of bringing him back into the fold. Gambhir, who started IPL 2018 season as captain, could score just 85 runs in his six matches and subsequently dropped himself from the playing XI. (Image: AFP)
3. Brendon McCullum
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Brendon McCullum, one to most destructive batsmen and the first century scorer in IPL history, has been let go by Royal Challengers Bangalore. McCullum is now retired from international cricket and shown patches of form in IPL. He may be good pick-up in IPL 2019 auction. (Image: File)
4. Mitchell Starc
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Mitchell Starc missed the last season due to injury after being picked up for Rs 9.4 Crore by Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2018 auction. The question on his fitness and the Cricket Australia's new policy for players- CA has asked their players to leave the IPL in the later half to prepare for the 2019 World Cup - was factor in KKR's decision. (Image: File)
5. Mustafizur Rahman
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Mustafizur Rahman did not live up to the expectations for Mumbai Indians last season. The left-arm pacer from Bangladesh got seven wickets in seven games. However, he will be hopeful to be picked by some other franchise. (Image: PTI)
6. Jaydev Unadkat
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Unadkat was the costliest Indian player in IPL 2018 auction. However, his performance for Rajasthan Royals did not justify his price tag. It seems RR have decided to cut their losses this season. (Image: AFP)
7. Glenn Maxwell
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Glenn Maxwell is one of the best T20 cricketers in modern times, has been incosistent in IPL. With Cricket Australia asking their players to leave the IPL in the later half to prepare for the 2019 World Cup, he is unlikely to compete in the entire IPL season. (Image: AFP)
