IPL 2024 has started, with the first two weeks of the league in the history books already. Former champions Kolkata Knight Riders and inaugural winners Rajasthan Royals are unbeaten in this season so far, whereas five-time champions Mumbai Indians are the only team with zero points in their account.
As every cricket fan knows, the IPL is the competition, where the best take on the best. Since only 12 players from a squad of 20-25 can play in the match, some quality players are often benched. Here’s a list of four such cricketers who have been surprisingly benched so far in IPL 2024.
1. Shahrukh Khan is yet to play a match in IPL 2024
Tamil Nadu-based finisher Shahrukh Khan received a massive deal from the Gujarat Titans in the auction. As Hardik Pandya left the franchise, many expected Khan to feature in the playing XI straightaway. However, he has been warming the benches so far in the tournament.
2. Lockie Ferguson is yet to play a match in IPL 2024
New Zealand’s express fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has troubled many quality batters with his pace in the past. RCB snapped him up at base price at the auction, but the team management has preferred Alzarri Joseph and Reece Topley over Ferguson.
3. Amit Mishra
Senior leg-spinner Amit Mishra did an impressive job for the Lucknow Super Giants in the 2023 season. LSG retained him for the 2024 season. However, the Super Giants have not given him a place in their playing squad so far this season.
4. Moeen Ali
Moeen Ali was one of the top match-winners for CSK in IPL’s last few seasons. This year, CSK have the likes of Rachin Ravindra and Daryl Mitchell in the squad. Thus, the England all-rounder has been sitting out of the team in the competition this year.
