IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals eager for reshuffle at the auctions
After letting their 11 players go before the auction, Rajasthan Royals will be primed for building a new roster. Their overseas core unit of Jos Buttler, Steve Smith, Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer remains intact but they have a lot to do in the Indian section. Apart from the released lot, RR also traded the likes of Ajinkya Rahane and Krishnappa Gowtham. Since they possess overseas players of calibre, their scramble at the auction on 19th December will be around local talent.
Here are the areas which Rajasthan Royals need to strengthen at the auctions
Rajasthan Royals before the auction
Opening partner for Jos Buttler
England’s Jos Buttler has been a phenomenal performer for the Royals at the top but his partner is yet to be confirmed. From the current squad, RR have only one option in Manan Vohra. The batsman did not feature in the IPL 2019 and played only four matches in the preceding year. Opening slot is one of the most important batting positions in T20 cricket and Royals will have to find an able opening batsman. The franchise is likely to hunt for an Indian opener who can play a supporting role to Buttler.
Aggressor at the death
One of RR’s released players is Krishnappa Gowtham. The Karnataka all-rounder was a capable hitter in the death overs. Other releases include Liam Livingstone and Ashton Turner, both can bat at a higher tempo. The current lower middle-order of RR consists of Mahipal Lomror, Riyan Parag and Rahul Tewatia. The absence of an international power-hitter may well harm them in late overs when they will look for extra runs. Someone like Yusuf Pathan can fit perfectly in that slot.
An off-spinner
The Royals have three spinners in their arsenal as of now – Shreyas Gopal, Mayank Markande and Rahul Tewatia. All three are leg-spinners who depend on their wrists. Although potent, it’s a one-dimensional spin attack. They had an off-spinner in K Gowtham whom they traded away. RR do not have a bowler who can spin the ball away from a left-handed batsman. They must aim for an off-spinner in the coming auction.
