Photo Gallery: Top cricketers released by franchises ahead of IPL auction 2019

Yuvraj Singh is one of the most effective all-rounders in the T20 format considering his ability to smash huge sixes as well as pick wickets at regular intervals with his off-spin bowling. The 36-year-old cricketer developed a reputation of being a match-winner after smashing six sixes against England in the ICC T20 World Cup 2007 as well as ensuring consistent performances for team India. However, the cricketer was released by the Kings X1 Punjab after an underwhelming season where he failed to lead from the front and make his presence felt for the franchise. The cricketer managed to only score 65 runs in eight games at an average of 10.38 for the Kings X1 Punjab last season despite being afforded regular opportunities by the franchise who invested their faith in him through thick and thin. He will be looking to make his presence felt in this edition of the IPL if afforded an opportunity. (Image Courtesy: Twitter/@BCCI)  

Mitchell Starc has developed a reputation of being more than capable of bowling inch-perfect yorkers at a high speed making it extremely difficult for the batsman. However, the 28-year-old Australian fast bowler was released by the Kolkata Knight Riders after being purchased for 9.8 crore last season. Starc was ruled out of action last season due to an injury with the Knight Riders opting to cash in on his services this season. The decision might have been undertaken after taking into consideration his limited involvement in the tournament with the World Cup all set to commence soon after the tournament. (Image Courtesy: IANS)    

Brendon McCullum has been released by the Royal Challengers Bangalore having scored 127 runs in six matches for the franchise last season. The experienced New Zealand batsman has been a vital member of the Indian Premier League since 2008, going on to represent the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Kochi Tuskers, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Gujarat Lions (GL). (Image Courtesy: PTI)     

Gautam Gambhir has been a prolific batsman in the Indian Premier League over the years, making his presence felt for the Kolkata Knight Riders. However, the 37-year-old batsman failed to register the same impact for the Delhi Daredevils last season resulting in the cricketer being released by the franchise. At the same time, the veteran has been in good form so far in the domestic season and enjoys immense experience in local conditions, making him a valuable acquisition. (Image Courtesy: PTI)          

Glenn Maxwell has been released by the Delhi Daredevils after being unable to make his presence felt despite the faith invested in him by the franchise. However, his undeniable talent and ability to change the game singlehandedly with a wide variety of strokes makes him a match-winner in the T20 format of the game.(Image Courtesy: PTI)