In a significant development for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auction, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering allowing teams to retain five players and use one Right to Match (RTM) card. The move is aimed at giving franchises more flexibility to retain key players and ensure team stability.
Increased flexibility for IPL franchises
The BCCI’s decision comes in response to concerns raised by IPL team owners, who were in favor of a more aggressive retention plan to reduce the risk of brand dilution. The RTM card, which was last used in IPL 2018, allows franchises to match the highest bid for a player they previously released.
The latest retention rules strike a balance between allowing teams to keep their key players while protecting a competitive auction market. By retaining more Indian players, franchises can prioritize local talent and build a strong local base.
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Salary increase and suspension of influence player rule
Additionally, the increase in salary cap to INR 120 crore will provide teams with more financial flexibility to acquire top-tier talent.
The controversial Impact Player Rule introduced in IPL 2022 will be shelved. The move will return the IPL to a more traditional match strategy, removing the element of surprise substitutions.
Franchise likes with extended retention rule Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be able to secure their main groups. However, teams with fewer superstars may face difficult decisions when deciding which players to keep.
The IPL 2025 mega auction is likely to be held in early December, giving franchises ample time to strategize and prepare for the replacement of their players. Despite the larger retention pool, franchises are expected to be aggressive in the auction, bidding for new talent and creating a dynamic bidding environment.
 card was last used in IPL 2018. RTM will be back again in IPL 2025 mega auction.){kind=link}