England batsman Jason Roy has explained why he opted out of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL). Roy, who represented Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) last season, highlighted his focus on personal health over cricket commitments.
Following Roy’s exit, KKR signed England opener Phil Salt. Reflecting on his choice, the 33-year-old stressed the importance of mental and physical wellness. He also appreciated the faith the franchise had shown in him after his successful stint in IPL 2023, where he scored 285 runs in eight matches.
“Missing this year’s IPL was a huge decision. I felt like I owe them a huge amount, but I just had to put myself first, just mindset and body,” Roy shared on The Athlete’s Voice podcast.
Moreover, Roy’s recent workload, along with family commitments, influenced his choice to withdraw from the lucrative tournament. Despite not participating in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup in India, he remained involved in various T20 leagues.
“I’ve come off the back of not a huge amount of cricket. The last couple of months have really taken it out of me. It’s your decision.”
”A lot of thought has gone into it, and it’s become far easier to talk about and a far easier decision, just because you know, especially from past experiences, what that can do to you,” he added.
KKR currently occupies the second position in the IPL 2024 standings
Kolkata Knight Riders welcomed back their regular captain, Shreyas Iyer, to the team for the 2024 season after he missed the previous edition due to injury.
Additionally, the two-time champions made headlines during the 2024 IPL mini-auction by acquiring the renowned Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc for a record-breaking INR 24.75 crore, marking the highest-ever purchase in the tournament’s history.
Alongside these updates, KKR initiated their campaign strongly by securing victories in three consecutive matches. However, their winning momentum was disrupted by the defending champions, Chennai Super Kings, in the fourth encounter.
Despite this setback, the determined KKR team is focused on a comeback as they gear up to face Lucknow Super Giants at Eden Gardens on April 13. Currently, KKR holds the second position in the IPL 2024 points table, accumulating six points so far.
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