Trading activity among franchises has intensified considerably ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 player auction. Alongside ongoing discussions surrounding the potential trade of Hardik Pandya, the name of aggressive England all-rounder Liam Livingstone has now surfaced. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are keen to bring the English cricketer into their squad and are actively engaged in discussions with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). However, the Hyderabad management has not reached a conclusive decision on the proposal, leaving the discussions open.
Multiple Franchises Show Interest in the English All-Rounder
Chennai Super Kings are actively evaluating various possibilities to secure Liam Livingstone through the ongoing trade window. Hyderabad had invested a substantial sum of 13 crore rupees to acquire the all-rounder at the previous auction. Following his recent form on the field, the franchise is reassessing his long-term role within the squad. Beyond Chennai, another franchise based in North India has also expressed an interest in Livingstone, although those conversations remain in an exploratory and preliminary phase.
Difficult Campaign on the Field Last Season
The previous IPL season proved exceptionally challenging for the 33-year-old all-rounder. Liam Livingstone managed to feature in only two fixtures for Sunrisers Hyderabad throughout the campaign, contributing just 15 runs with the bat. Following those underwhelming outings, he lost his place in the playing eleven and was subsequently dropped even as an option for the Impact Player substitution.
Hyderabad had originally secured his services after he was released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Prior to that stint, RCB had signed Livingstone for 8.75 crore rupees during the mega auction. Having struggled to replicate his explosive reputation during his latest franchise run, a change of colors is now being actively explored across franchise circles.
Khaleel Ahmed Linked Alongside Potential Swap Candidates
The exact combination of players Chennai Super Kings might place on the table in exchange for Livingstone remains unclear. The name of left-arm fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed has emerged in connection with the deal, though the information remains unconfirmed. A key point of uncertainty stems from the fact that Sunrisers Hyderabad recently recruited experienced left-arm seamer T Natarajan into their ranks. Consequently, questions remain over whether Hyderabad would seek another left-arm pace option in this swap.
Retention Deadline of November 17 Approaches
In addition to Khaleel Ahmed, the name of another Chennai player has surfaced in early conversations between the two sides. Multiple franchises and players are currently engaged in cross-team discussions across the league. None of these proposed deals have been finalized, meaning the transaction could either materialize or fall through entirely. The deadline for franchises to submit their retained player lists is November 17, and the coming days are expected to bring complete clarity on Livingstone's destination.
