Introduction to IPL 2022 Retentions
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 mega auction was a significant event, marking a fresh start for franchises with the opportunity to rebuild their teams. Before the auction, each team had the chance to retain a select number of players, ensuring they could keep their core intact. This article provides a detailed look at the players retained by each franchise ahead of the 2022 mega auction.
Retention Rules and Guidelines
Before diving into the list of retained players, it’s essential to understand the retention rules set by the IPL governing council. Each team was allowed to retain a maximum of four players. This could be a combination of capped or uncapped players, with a maximum of three overseas players. The retention strategy was crucial as it impacted the team’s purse for the auction.
Chennai Super Kings
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), known for their consistent performance, retained the following players:
- MS Dhoni – The legendary captain and wicketkeeper-batsman.
- Ravindra Jadeja – An all-rounder known for his exceptional fielding and versatility.
- Moeen Ali – The English all-rounder who brings balance to the team.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad – The young opening batsman who impressed with his performances.
Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians (MI), the most successful franchise in IPL history, opted to retain these key players:
- Rohit Sharma – The charismatic captain and opening batsman.
- Jasprit Bumrah – India’s premier fast bowler known for his death-over skills.
- Suryakumar Yadav – A reliable middle-order batsman.
- Kieron Pollard – The explosive West Indian all-rounder.
Kolkata Knight Riders
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made strategic retentions to maintain their competitive edge:
- Andre Russell – The dynamic all-rounder from the West Indies.
- Varun Chakravarthy – The mystery spinner who has been a revelation.
- Venkatesh Iyer – The emerging all-rounder who made a significant impact.
- Sunil Narine – The experienced spinner and pinch-hitter.
Royal Challengers Bangalore
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) focused on retaining their core group of players:
- Virat Kohli – The former captain and prolific run-scorer.
- Glenn Maxwell – The Australian all-rounder known for his explosive batting.
- Mohammed Siraj – The fast bowler who has shown great promise.
Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals (DC) retained a mix of experienced and young talent:
- Rishabh Pant – The captain and wicketkeeper-batsman.
- Axar Patel – The all-rounder who provides depth in both batting and bowling.
- Prithvi Shaw – The aggressive opening batsman.
- Anrich Nortje – The South African fast bowler.
Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings (PBKS) made selective retentions to build a competitive squad:
- Mayank Agarwal – The opening batsman and future captaincy prospect.
- Arshdeep Singh – The promising young fast bowler.
Sunrisers Hyderabad
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) focused on retaining key players for stability:
- Kane Williamson – The captain and dependable batsman.
- Abdul Samad – The young all-rounder with potential.
- Umran Malik – The fast bowler known for his pace.
Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals (RR) retained a mix of experience and youth:
- Sanju Samson – The captain and wicketkeeper-batsman.
- Jos Buttler – The explosive English batsman.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal – The young opening batsman with immense potential.
Conclusion
The retention strategy ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction was a critical step for each franchise. By retaining key players, teams aimed to maintain a balance between experience and fresh talent. These decisions set the stage for an exciting auction and a competitive season ahead.