IPL 2024: Top 5 players who might go unsold in upcoming mini auction

After the end of a dramatic trade and retention process in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024), all ten franchises are ready for the upcoming mini-auction. On the final retention list, almost 85 players have been released by the teams. However, teams can perform more trades before the auctions until December 12.

It's worth noting that the auction will take place on December 19 at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. Ahead of the crucial auctions, teams will be figuring out their possible targets for the upcoming season. However, there will be some players who fail to attract any bids and might go unsold. So, here are the top 5 players who might go unsold in the upcoming auction.

#5. Jofra Archer

Jofra Archer's IPL 2023 stint failed to meet expectations, hindering his prospects in the upcoming auction. Anticipated to be the Mumbai Indians' pace spearhead, Archer grappled with poor form and recurring injuries amid the crucial absences of Jasprit Bumrah and Jhye Richardson. In five matches, the Sussex star managed just two wickets while leaking runs at a concerning rate of 9.50.

This lacklustre performance, coupled with his history of injuries, raises doubts about his value to potential bidders. Teams may hesitate to invest in a player whose recent struggles and physical setbacks cast uncertainty on his ability to deliver a consistent and impactful performance throughout the tournament, leaving Archer at risk of going unsold in the upcoming IPL auction.

#4. Shakib Al Hasan

Shakib Al Hasan, a former player for KKR and SRH, faces potential unsold status in auctions due to recent absences and a lack of a long-term commitment. The Bangladesh captain, associated with KKR from 2011 to 2017, missed the last season due to personal reasons, raising concerns about his consistent availability. This hiatus may deter franchises from seeking dependable players for the entire tournament.

Additionally, the dynamic nature of T20 leagues often favours younger talents or players with a continuous presence. Shakib's intermittent participation in recent years may render him a risky investment for teams aspiring for sustained team cohesion. These factors collectively diminish his auction prospects, making him susceptible to going unsold in the upcoming IPL auctions.

#3. Joe Root

Despite being a formidable Test player, Joe Root's underwhelming performance in the previous IPL season raises concerns about his T20 adaptability. Limited to just three matches, he managed a mere 10 runs, failing to showcase the explosive batting prowess often demanded in the IPL. Root's reputation as a Test specialist may deter franchise-seeking players with a more established T20 track record.

Teams are likely to prioritise players with a consistent history of impactful performances in shorter formats, potentially leaving Root unsold in the upcoming IPL auctions. The shift from Test to T20 cricket requires a distinct skill set, and Root's previous struggles in the IPL could influence franchises to look elsewhere for their batting needs.

#2. Jason Holder

Jason Holder's potential unsold status in the IPL 2024 auction stems from his lacklustre performance in the 2023 season with the Rajasthan Royals. Despite being a West Indies modern-day great and a premier T20 all-rounder, Holder struggled to make an impact, becoming a weak link in RR's lineup.

His decline in both bowling and batting departments disrupted the team's balance, leading to their disappointing season. Holder's unimpressive averages of 71 with the ball and a high economy of 9.96, coupled with a meagre 12 runs across three innings with the bat, raise concerns about his form and effectiveness. These subpar statistics might discourage franchisees from investing in him for IPL 2024, making him a potential candidate to go unsold.

#1. Manish Pandey

Despite being an IPL stalwart and a seasoned player, Manish Pandey's recent performance slump with the Delhi Capitals in 2023 might lead to him going unsold in the upcoming auctions. The Karnataka veteran, known for his significant contributions, scored only 160 runs at a meagre strike rate of 109.58, averaging below 20 in the previous season.

This significant dip in form raises concerns about his consistency and ability to deliver match-winning performances. Teams may be wary of investing in a player whose recent statistics don't reflect his past glory. The drop in form might result in teams hesitating to bid for Manish Pandey, potentially putting a halt to his otherwise illustrious IPL career.