5 Players SRH might release ahead of next IPL season

The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is being held in tough circumstances. With no fans cheering for their favourite teams on the ground, it was a different experience for the players. Also, apart from that, the teams had to change their plans because of the change in venues. Regular COVID tests, precautions, and masks while traveling became the new “normal”.

Another factor that has surprised many cricket pundits across the globe is the point difference amongst the teams in the group stages. Rajasthan, which finished at the bottom managed to gather 12 points whereas Delhi managed to climb up the points table with 14 points. This gives an overall idea about the competitive nature of the IPL. And it may continue in 2021 too. Hence, the teams need to find the perfect squad for their franchise.

Let us talk about the 2016 champions, the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Their campaign has been more of an action movie. They choked against KXIP but managed to win four in a row. Now, with Rashid Khan taking the charge of the bowling attack, they can challenge much stronger teams like the Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals. However, there are certain areas they might implement changes and to make those changes, they must release some of their players.

So, here is a list of players SRH should release ahead of IPL 2021:

5. Shreevats Goswami

Goswami was the frontline wicketkeeper for the India U19 team that emerged victorious in the 2008 World Cup. He was one of the elite group of players who received the 2008 IPL contract and was roped in by the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Then, during the fourth edition of the tournament, he was bought by the Kolkata Knight Riders and later, by Rajasthan Royals. Shifting of bases in the toughest tournament never helped Goswami as he rarely received any opportunities to showcase his talent.

His 29 IPL appearances over thirteen years are proof that over the years, Goswami was a backup wicketkeeper. And unfortunately, this was the case of his tenure with SRH too. Now, with Jonny Bairstow and Wriddhiman Saha competing for the post of the regular wicketkeeper, Goswami’s future with SRH looks bleak. Instead, he should be released by the team so that he finds more opportunities as a specialist wicketkeeper.

With teams like CSK entering the transition phase, Goswami will be a good choice for them. As Dhoni has made it clear that he will play the next edition, Goswami can be an asset to the CSK as an opener. And post-Dhoni era, he can guard the wickets too. An average of 16.28 in IPL means that he was never a regular member of playing eleven. Hence, the southpaw should be released so that SRH can include a batting allrounder in their squad.