Aakash Chopra Suggests Kings XI Punjab To Release These Two Overseas Stars Ahead Of IPL 2021

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra comes up with some of the most meaningful analysis of the game. Aakash Chopra has worked as an analyst for quite some time now and offers profound insights to the cricketing fans. The former Indian opening batsman focussed on Kings XI Punjab following the recently concluded IPL 2020, suggesting leaving out Glenn Maxwell and Sheldon Cottrell. The franchise finished at sixth position in the points table.

Glenn Maxwell was amongst the most disappointing cricketers in IPL 2020 as he managed only 108 runs in 13 games at an awful average of 15.43 alongside a strike rate of 101.89. Maxwell copped widespread criticism for underperforming for KXIP, who shelled out a hefty INR 10.75 crores. On the other hand, Sheldon Cottrell performed well; however, he was consistent. The left-arm seamer snapped six wickets in as many fixtures at 29.33.

With the mega auction speculated to take place ahead of IPL 2021, Aakash Chopra reckons that Kings XI Punjab needs it. Aakash feels that KXIP require to accumulate competent men in their fast bowling unit since they cannot work ones with the one they have. According to him, the franchise must certainly release Glenn Maxwell and Sheldon Cottrell. He added that Hardus Viljoen could also be let go if he seems redundant.

“Kings XI Punjab have a reasonable need of a mega auction because they need changes. They have to do something for the fast bowling unit because it will not work out with the ones they have. They should leave out Sheldon Cottrell, they should leave Hardus Viljoen also if they are not playing him, and they should leave Maxwell as well,” Aakash said in a video posted on his Facebook page.

“Kings XI Punjab might still be able to manage without a mega auction” : Aakash Chopra

The 43-year old pointed out that at 41, Chris Gayle could still be worth retaining since he delivers the X-factor or the intimidating one. Aakash stated that since Gayle is not an expensive player, the franchise should keep him. However, even if the mega auction does not take place, Kings XI Punjab would get a hefty amount by dropping two or three big names. It is worth noting that the franchise spent INR 10.75 and 8.5 crores on Glenn Maxwell and Sheldon Cottrell respectively. Hence, releasing the duo could work in favour of them.

“They can keep Gayle if he wants to play although he is 41-years old. But the IPL is just a few months away and he was not expensive as well. So they can keep him as he is an X-factor and an intimidating factor. Kings XI Punjab might still be able to manage without a mega auction but they will have to do a good selection in the small auction and if they drop those 2-3 big names, they would get a bigger purse to shop wholeheartedly,” he added.

Also Read: IPL 2020: Aakash Chopra Impressed With ‘Selfless’ Mayank Agarwal For Playing Fearlessly