Harshal Patel issues first statement after being released by RCB ahead of IPL 2024

The Royal Challengers Bangalore seek a fresh start in the IPL 2024. Virat Kohli's IPL franchise hasn't been able to cross the final hurdle since the inception of the tournament in 2008. Ahead of the IPL 2024, they have released a number of players including fast bowler Harshal Patel.

3 things you need to know

• RCB released fast bowler Harshal Patel ahead of IPL 2024
• Harshal joined RCB back in 2021
• He was also the Purple cap holder in the same year

Also Read: 'Money or legacy': Former India opener takes a dig at Hardik Pandya for ditching Gujarat Titans

Harshal Patel pens heartwarming note after RCB released him 

Harshal Patel was one of the prominent names on the list of released players as the franchise ended their three-year-old association with the pacer. Harshal was grabbed in the 2021 auction at a whopping INR 10.75 crore and he arrived with a bang picking up 32 wickets and donning the purple cap that season. But despite his bowling prowess RCB failed to take up any advantage as their longing for the IPL title has got stretched further.

However, Harshal thanked the franchise for entrusting him for three years and also for standing by him through all his problems. He posted, “I want to share some special memories I’ve had with @royalchallengersbangalore. Last three years have been an incredible journey for me. I want to thank everyone in the team who stood by me through thick and thin. As I move on, I have nothing but gratitude in my heart.”

Harshal Patel had an ordinary IPL in 2023 as he recorded 14 wickets to his name. Among other names, RCB also released Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood and Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga.

Also Read: IPL 2024: Shubman Gill issues first statement after becoming captain of Gujarat Titans

RCB list of retained and released players

Retained Players: Adam Zampa, Avesh Khan (T), Dhruv Jurel, Donovan Ferreira, Jos Buttler, Kuldeep  Sen, Kunal Rathore, Navdeep Saini, Prasidh Krishna, R. Ashwin, Riyan Parag, Sandeep Sharma, Sanju Samson, Shimron Hetmyer, Trent Boult, Yashaswi Jaiswal, Yuzvendra Chahal

Released Players: Abdul P A, Akash Vashisht, Jason Holder, Joe Root, K.C Cariappa, K.M. Asif, Kuldip Yadav, Murugan Ashwin, Obed Mccoy