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Kolkata Knight Riders' star batter Jason Roy opted out of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) citing personal reasons. This marks the third time in recent seasons Roy has withdrawn from the IPL, having previously missed the 2020 and 2022 editions with Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans respectively.
Following Roy's withdrawal, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) announced Phil Salt as his replacement. Salt, who impressed with the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2023, was available at his base price after going unsold in the auction. His recent form, including a rise to No.2 in the ICC Men's T20I Batting rankings, makes him a valuable addition to the KKR squad.
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Jason Roy breaks silence amidst backlash post IPL withdrawal
Notably, Roy's withdrawal from IPL 2024 coincides with participation in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024. Roy's decision to prioritise the Pakistan Super League (PSL) over the IPL has drawn criticism from some fans on social media.
KKR batter Roy, in a statement issued on March 11, announced his withdrawal from the 2024 IPL season. Citing the need to spend time with his family after being on the road since January, Roy expressed his support for the KKR team throughout the competition.
“After much consideration, I have made the tough decision to miss this year’s IPL. Having been away since the start of January I need to get back to my family and have a refresh before a very busy year ahead. I will be supporting my friends and teammates at KKR throughout the tournament and wish them the best of luck,” Roy said, as quoted by KKR.
KKR look to end IPL title drought
Two-time title holders KKR are set to begin their IPL 2024 campaign on March 23, where they will lock horns with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Ahead of the season, KKR has bolstered their coaching staff with the addition of two-time IPL champion Gautam Gambhir as a mentor. This reunion holds significance as Gambhir previously led KKR to victory in the 2014 IPL season. Under the combined leadership of captain Shreyas Iyer, mentor Gambhir, and coach Chandrakant Pandit, KKR will be aiming to end their title drought and lift the IPL trophy once again.
KKR's IPL 2024's schedule for first 21 matches
KKR vs Sunrisers Hyderabad - March 23 - Kolkata - 7:30 PM IST
KKR vs Royal Challengers Bangalore - March 29 - Bengaluru - 7:30 PM IST
KKR vs Delhi Capitals - April 3 - Visakhapatnam - 7:30 PM IST
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