IPL 2022: Four players RR might retain ahead of mega auction

All the eight existing Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises would be busy brainstorming with the deadline for the submission of a retention list approaching. The team owners have been asked to finalize their list of retained players by November 30. With a mega auction taking place ahead of the 2022 season, teams can retain a maximum of four players from the squad which they had in IPL 2021.

Notably, none of the franchises can retain more than two foreign players. Hence, many sides are set to go under a revamp. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals might have a problem of plenty while finalizing the list of retained players. Although the inaugural-season champions haven’t done too well in the last few seasons, there are several big names in the squad who can bag a big amount in the auction event.

Meanwhile, let’s look at the four foreign players Rajasthan Royals can retain ahead of IPL 2021 mega auction:

Sanju Samson

Samson has been a prolific run-scorer for Rajasthan Royals over the years and he’s certain to extend his association with the team. The right-handed batter can attack bowlers straightway and his ability to play big knocks makes him even more effective.  He even led the Men in Pink in the last season and did a commendable job with the bat at least. Hence, RR must retain him.

Jos Buttler

Letting go of Jos Buttler would be an absolute crime with the dasher being arguably the best T20 batter going around. The swashbuckler is well versed with the drill of this format and his numbers are nothing short of sensational. As a franchise can retain two foreign players, the England international must be in Royals’ plans.

Ben Stokes

It would be a tough toss-up between Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer with the two England players being absolute superstars of the game. In normal circumstances, Archer, the Most Valuable Player in IPL 2020, might have piped his national teammate. However, he has hardly played any cricket in recent months and it remains to be seen whether he can bowl with some hostility or not. Hence, Stokes must be retained.

Kartik Tyagi

If RR decide to retain four players, Kartik Tyagi might find a place in the retention list. The uncapped Indian pacer bowled some stellar spells in the preceding season and made the ball talk. Also, the uncapped retained player would be paid a sum of INR 4 crore. In case Tyagi lands in the auction pool, he’s pretty certain to fetch a greater amount. Hence, RR might retain him.