IPL Auctions 2014: Players whom Rajasthan Royals must retain

2013 was a year for which Rajasthan Royals, inspite of their great performances on the field, will be remembered by the names – Ajit Chandila, Ankeet Chavan and Shanthakumaran Sreesanth. The three of them admitted to spot-fixing and were banned from playing cricket for life. However, from a purely on-field perspective, the Royals had an absolutely outstanding 2013, finishing third in the IPL and ending the Champions League T20 as runners-up.

Here is a look at the players the Royals must ensure they hold on to.

1. Shane Watson

Shane Watson

Without a trace of doubt, Watson is the most important cog in the Royals’ wheel. Be it with his belligerent batting, or his reliable medium pace, Watson provides the balance that every captain so craves. Also, with Rahul Dravid no more being a part of the Royals team, Watson could well be the man picked to lead the side. He has won umpteen matches for the Royals in the six years of IPL so far, and Shilpa Shetty and co. will be looking for more of the same from their explosive marquee player from Down Under.

2. James Faulkner

James Faulkner

The Royals’ highest wicket-taker from 2013 will undoubtedly be high up their retention priorities. Faulkner picked up 28 wickets in IPL6 and was instrumental in the Royals finishing 3rd. Faulkner has excellent control with the new ball, but what sets him apart is his exemplary ability to control the runs and pick up wickets at the death. Add to this, his ability to hit the ball a mile, and Faulkner is the perfect package for the T20 Format.

3. Ajinkya Rahane

Ajinkya Rahane

In many ways, Ajinkya Rahane is Rahul Dravid’s protégé. Dravid took Rahane under his wings over his three years at the Royals and has moulded Rahane into the fine batsman that he is now. Rahane is the steady influence on a side filled with bashers like Watson, Faulkner, Sanju Samson and Stuart Binny. Rahane plays within his limitations and yet manages to maintain a decent strike rate and keep the scoreboard ticking over.

4. Brad Hodge

Brad Hodge

The ultimate T20 batsman, is what Hodge has proved to be. Be it opening the innings, batting in the middle order, or donning the role of the finisher. Hodge has done it all with aplomb. It is Hodge’s role in the Royals team to be the calm head in tense finishes, and in a team filled with youth, Hodge’s experience is vital. Rahul Dravid’s retirement accentuates the necessity for the Royals to keep Hodge. As an experienced player who understands the dynamics of the franchise, Hodge could well be one of the leaders in the current crop for the Royals.