IPL franchises have recently revealed their retained and released player lists for the upcoming IPL 2024 auction. Notably, teams have prioritized retaining experienced players, including those aged over 35, recognizing their ability to make substantial contributions and lead teams to victories in the high-pressure environment of the IPL. The announcement highlights the significance of experience in the tournament, as players with a calm temperament and prior exposure to pressure situations have consistently played crucial roles. With several seasoned players retained, the prospect of constructing a strong playing XI featuring those above 35 adds an intriguing dimension to the anticipation of the IPL 2024 season.
The Best XI of retained players for IPL 2024 boasts a formidable opening pair with Mumbai Indians’ Rohit Sharma and former Delhi Capitals skipper David Warner. These two prolific batsmen, ranking as the 4th and 5th highest run-scorers in IPL history, are succeeded by the Royal Challengers Bangalore duo of Virat Kohli, the all-time top run-scorer, and the explosive Glenn Maxwell.
The middle-order features the experienced Chennai Super Kings pair, Ravindra Jadeja and the iconic MS Dhoni, who, at 42, is the oldest player in the upcoming IPL season. Dhoni, with five IPL titles as CSK’s captain, is likely to bid farewell to the tournament after the 2024 edition. This lineup showcases a perfect blend of experience, leadership, and explosive batting prowess from some of the most accomplished players in IPL history.
n the lower order of the Best XI of retained players above 35 for IPL 2024, the team exhibits a well-balanced combination of spin and pace. The selection includes two accomplished spin-bowling all-rounders: Sunil Narine, an IPL veteran with a remarkable T20 record, retained by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Sikandar Raza, who made his IPL debut for Punjab Kings last season and has been retained.
The pace department is fortified by the inclusion of fast bowler Ishant Sharma, who continues to showcase his prowess at the age of 35 for Delhi Capitals. Additionally, the experienced leg-spinner Amit Mishra, aged 41, left a significant impact for Lucknow Supergiants (LSG) on the Lucknow surface.
The final Best XI, composed of retained players above 35 for IPL 2024, reflects a thoughtful combination of seasoned campaigners who bring a wealth of experience and skill to various facets of the game. This lineup underscores the significance of balancing youth with experience in T20 cricket.
- Rohit Sharma
- David Warner
- Virat Kohli
- Glenn Maxwell
- Ravindra Jadeja
- MS Dhoni (C, wk)
- Sikandar Raza
- Sunil Narine
- Ishant Sharma
- R Ashwin
- Amit Mishra