5 players who should not have been released by their IPL franchises

#3 Kevin Pietersen

Kevin Pietersen is no longer in contention to play for the England national team

Kevin Pietersen has been one of the top performers for BBL franchise Melbourne Stars this season. His excellent performances with the willow have ensured a semi-final berth for them.

263 runs in just 7 matches at a strike rate of 132.16 and an average of 43.83 is no joke. The Englishman has been released by the Rising Pune Supergiants after he was unable to impress in his injury-plagued season for the side.

This decision might not have been the wisest as the 36-year-old has the ability to come out all guns blazing when the odds are against him. He scored a century against the Deccan Chargers who made the mistake of releasing him and has the ability to do the same against the Rising Pune Supergiants if given an opportunity.

Pietersen has the ability to be a match-winner on his day and lends the much-needed stability to any middle-order. He can be a boon for any IPL franchise which gives him an opportunity to exhibit his talent.