Rahul Dravid has joined Rajasthan Royals. The first task for him will be to finalize the retentions. BCCI is yet to announce the retention policy. Irrespective of the policy, Dravid could take a few hard calls keeping in mind the future of the franchise. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of three bold retention calls Rahul Dravid could take for RR before IPL 2025.
1) Release Jos Buttler
Just a couple of seasons ago, we saw the best of Jos Buttler. However, both for country and franchise, Buttler’s form has dropped. Irrespective of this, he produces some fine knocks now and then.
Buttler does not have many years left in his peak. There are also report that the next Mega Auction cyle will be of five years. Hence, the best talent will be available only in IPL 2025 Auctions. Therefore, releasing Buttler and targeting him for a lower fee or an able replacement like Phil Salt could be a good plan.
2) Release Yuzvendra Chahal
Releasing Chahal is one of the bold retention calls Rahul Dravid could take for RR before IPL 2025. Chahal has been in and around the Purple Cap ever since he joined RR.
His age is also not that high. Ideally, he should be retained. However, considering his declining form, RR could release Chahal. They could then target him again or sign a younger replacement.
3) Retain Shimron Hetmyer
It is hard to get a left-handed middle-order batter who can finish games consistently. Hetmyer falls in this rare bracket. He is also in good form now.
Hence, it does make sense for RR to consider retaining the West Indian cricketer. If he works on his fitness, he can be in the bracket of someone like Nicholas Pooran. But this move could come with a lot of risks and hence, we have this on this list.
