Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have made a bold move ahead of the IPL 2024 season, releasing bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur just one year after acquiring him as the most expensive trade buy in IPL history.
Lackluster Performance Leads to Thakur’s Release
Shardul Thakur, who had a prolific stint with the Chennai Super Kings from 2018 to 2021 before a brief period with Delhi Capitals, failed to make an impact in the 2023 season with KKR. Scoring only 113 runs in 11 innings and taking just seven wickets with the ball, Thakur’s performance did not meet the expectations that came with his hefty INR 10.75 Cr price tag.
The decision to release Thakur comes after KKR’s disappointing 2023 season, where they failed to secure a spot in the playoffs. The team, which boasts two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014, finished in the bottom half of the 10-team points table, managing to win only six out of 14 matches.
While Thakur’s release has been confirmed by the franchise, there are speculations regarding the possible release of New Zealand duo Lockie Ferguson and Tim Southee. Their lacklustre performances in the IPL 2023 season might lead to their exit from the KKR squad, though the franchise has not officially announced any further releases at this time.
Gautam Gambhir Returns as Team Mentor
In a surprising turn of events, two-time IPL-winning captain Gautam Gambhir is set to return to Kolkata Knight Riders, this time as the team mentor. This move marks a significant change in the backroom staff, with Gambhir leaving his position at Lucknow Super Giants to rejoin the KKR family.
The return of Gambhir, who led KKR to IPL victories in 2012 and 2014, adds a wealth of experience and leadership to the team’s support staff. It remains to be seen how this change, along with the release of Shardul Thakur, will impact the dynamics of the Kolkata Knight Riders in the upcoming IPL season.
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