NICK HOWSON takes a look at the Rockets' player recruitment and suggests what more needs to be done before the start of the new season
Who has been retained?
Rockets have kept hold of the most potent limited-overs spinner on the planet in Rashid Khan, with the core of last season's squad also retained.
A dozen remain from last term including Luke Wood, who only played five games and wildcard Sam Cook after his two outings.
Matt Carter was a revelation last season and is among a familiar-looking Nottinghamshire contingent, headlined by Alex Hales.
Lewis Gregory has given up the T20 captaincy at Somerset to focus on his game but is set to lead Rockets again.
Rashid Khan (Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Who has been released?
Luke Wright, Jack Leaning, Sonny Baker and Ben Cox were all unused last season so it is little surprise to see them depart.
Similarly, Timm van der Gugten was only seen three times and had a horror show, going at 3.40 runs a delivery. Visa issues and then injury meant a limited role for Wahab Riaz.
Alex Hales will again lead the batting line-up (Nathan Stirk/Getty Images)
What will be the main focus of the draft?
Rockets will only be able to make one overseas signing during the main draft having kept on Rashid and Marchant de Lange.
Rumours are abound that Joe Clarke is the main target, an indication as if we needed one that a replacement for D'Arcy Short is top of their shopping list.
Some additional fire in the pace attack would be a prudent move. A backup for keeper Tom Moores might be useful, too.
Squad: Joe Root, Dawid Malan, Rashid Khan, Alex Hales, Lewis Gregory, Marchant de Lange, Luke Wood, Samit Patel, Matt Carter, Steven Mullaney, Sam Cook, Tom Moores (12)
Overseas players: 2
Spaces to fill: 5
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