RR’s Retention Strategy: Inaugural IPL winner Rajasthan Royals have already completed half of their auction planning through the retention-release cycle.
They secured the two all-rounders they wanted the most – Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran.
However, Curran’s arrival creates a new challenge – the overseas quota is now full, which means RR must release a few foreign players to make space.
Who Might RR Release for Overseas Balance?
Reports suggest that Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana are likely to be released to create room for Sam Curran. But beyond these two, RR will need to decide who else must make way.
Jofra Archer – Rs 12.5 crore
Archer is the biggest question mark. He will enter the IPL after playing an Ashes series followed by a T20 World Cup. His fitness remains uncertain. The real question is: Are Rajasthan Royals willing to take that risk again?
Shimron Hetmyer – Rs 11 crore
Hetmyer hasn’t finished matches the way RR expected. RR must now examine the auction pool to see if a stronger alternative exists. If RR releases both Archer and Hetmyer, along with Hasaranga and Theekshana, they will free up a large purse.
RR’s Purse Situation After Key Releases
Even after adjusting Sam Curran’s cost, Rajasthan Royals should have Rs 25-27 crore available.
This gives them solid flexibility heading into the auction. What Roles Must RR Fill Now?
Overseas Pacer
With Archer likely to be released, RR need an experienced overseas fast bowler who can bowl across phases.
A Quality Spinner
Jadeja strengthens the spin attack, but RR still need one more quality spinner – preferably Indian, but an overseas option is also possible.
An Experienced Batter
RR’s batting lineup has immense talent but lacks experience, Sanju Samson (If not traded), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag. This is a strong Indian core, but still young. RR need an experienced top-order batter who can anchor the innings and guide the lineup.
Final Take
Rajasthan Royals have made bold moves already, but crucial decisions remain. Their final releases and the way they spend Rs 25-27 crore at the auction will determine whether their squad becomes title-ready or remains a work-in-progress.