Liam Livingstone released by IPL franchise ahead of auction

Liam Livingstone has been released by his Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, delivering a major setback to his chances of featuring in next season’s tournament.
The Cumbrian all-rounder was let go by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on November 15, ahead of the important IPL auction scheduled for December 16.
The decision follows a difficult season for Livingstone in this year’s IPL, where he managed just 112 runs from 10 innings. Even though RCB lifted their first-ever IPL title earlier this year with Livingstone in the squad, the franchise still chose not to retain him.
He was released alongside South African fast bowler Lungi Ngidi and Indian batsman Mayank Agarwal.
At 32, Livingstone has now represented three different IPL sides: Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, and most recently, Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Over 49 IPL matches, he has scored 1,051 runs at a strike rate of 158.76, including seven half-centuries.
Responding to his release on Instagram, Livingstone looked back fondly on his time with RCB, saying he would never forget “that night in Ahmedabad,” the venue where RCB secured their maiden title. He also thanked fans for their support.
He is not the only English player released ahead of the Abu Dhabi auction. Moeen Ali was let go by Chennai Super Kings, while Reece Topley was released by Kolkata Knight Riders.
After recently getting married, Livingstone is currently competing in the Abu Dhabi T10 League for Quetta Qavalry. On November 23, he hit 18 runs off 8 balls to help his team claim their fifth straight win.