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[Saba Sports News] England batsman Joe Root has decided not to participate in IPL 2024, as confirmed by Rajasthan Royals on Saturday (November 25) before the retention deadline. This makes Root the second high-profile English player, after Ben Stokes, to opt out of the upcoming season.
Kumar Sangakkara, the Director of Cricket for the Royals, expressed in a statement that Root had a significant positive influence during his time with the team, both in terms of his energy and experience. Sangakkara noted that Root’s presence would be missed but fully respected his decision and wished him success in his future endeavors.
“During our retention conversations, Joe informed us of his decision to not take part in IPL 2024,” Sangakkara shared in a statement. “Even in a short span of time, Joe was able to create such a positive impact on the franchise and the players around him. His energy around the group and the experience he brought to the Royals will be missed. We respect his decision totally and wish him success in everything he does.”
Root joined the Royals for the 2023 season, bought at his base price of INR 1 Crore. While attempting to rejuvenate his T20 career, he played only three matches and batted in just one. Despite limited on-field action, Root’s inclusion added depth and experience to the squad, benefiting young players like Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
In preparation for the upcoming IPL auction, the Royals have also made a strategic move by trading in fast bowler Avesh Khan, exchanging him for Devdutt Padikkal, who will join the Lucknow Super Giants.