NICK HOWSON takes a look at Fire's player recruitment and suggests what more needs to be done before the start of the new season
Who has been retained?
Only six players made the cut, though that figure is reduced by Jonny Bairstow's winning back his Test central contract.
The focus of those who have stayed is the bowling, with Jake Ball, David Payne and Ryan Higgins remaining.
Ben Duckett was superb last season and Leus du Plooy beefs up the middle-order. Northamptonshire's Josh Cobb only batted three times and took the ball once but has done enough, occupying a place in the final band.
David Payne (Harry Trump/Getty Images)
Who has been released?
Fire have wiped the slate clean as far as their overseas ranks are concerned.
Additionally, they have also offloaded Tom Banton while Ian Cockbain will hope to pick up another big-money deal after his winter franchise exploits.
Restricted outings for Liam Plunkett, Graeme White and David Lloyd made their exits easier to sanction than most, while Essex-bound Matt Critchley is also looking for a contract elsewhere.
Ben Duckett could be back to captain Fire (Harry Trump/Getty Images)
What will be the main focus of the draft?
Eight draft picks means a mass overhaul beckons. All areas of the team from the openers - assuming Bairstow has Test cricket to focus on - spinners and the seam attack all need attention.
They certain start the draft with the weakest squad not just in pure numbers but because of the skills possessed by those still in Cardiff.
Three new overseas stars will be needed, but gaps in the top two price bands, and going second in the order after last season's seventh-place finish should help with that.
But as Manchester Originals found out when trying to rebuild their squad it isnt' always easy with a blank canvass.
Squad: Jonny Bairstow, Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett, Jake Ball, David Payne, Leus du Plooy, Ryan Higgins, Josh Cobb (8)
Overseas players: 0
Spaces to fill: 8
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