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The Indian Premier League (IPL) is gearing up for its 2025 season with a major shakeup: a mega auction where franchises can rebuild their rosters. But before the bidding wars commence, teams have a critical task: player retentions. This process allows teams to hold onto key players, ensuring stability and forming a strong foundation for the upcoming season. The IPL 2025 retention rules are designed to balance player retention with the excitement of the auction, offering franchises flexibility in their squad building approach.
Each IPL franchise has been granted an auction budget of ₹120 crore to assemble their teams. The retention process allows teams to secure their core players, but with limitations to ensure a fair and dynamic auction. Teams are allowed to retain up to six players in total, with a maximum of five capped players (Indian or overseas) and a maximum of two uncapped players. This structure encourages teams to build a blend of experienced and emerging talent.
The retention process involves two methods: direct retention and Right to Match (RTM) cards. Direct retention allows franchises to secure players at pre-determined costs. The cost for capped players varies based on the order of retention: the first retention costs ₹18 crore, the second ₹14 crore, the third ₹11 crore, the fourth ₹18 crore, and the fifth ₹14 crore. Uncapped players have a fixed retention cost of ₹4 crore. This system incentivizes teams to strategically select their retentions based on their budgets and player values.
RTM cards provide an additional level of control for franchises. The number of RTM cards a team receives is determined by subtracting the number of players they directly retained from six. For instance, if a team retains three players, they will have three RTM cards. This system allows teams to potentially reacquire players who were not directly retained by other franchises. The RTM process involves a bidding war, and the team holding the RTM can match the highest bid to secure the player.
The IPL 2025 retention rules introduce a new dimension to the RTM process. After the bidding concludes, if a team exercises their RTM, the highest bidder is given a final chance to increase their bid before the player is awarded. This addition adds a layer of competition and strategy to the RTM process. The retention and RTM system creates a dynamic balance between franchise control and the thrill of the auction, setting the stage for a captivating and unpredictable IPL season.
Source: IPL 2025 Retention Full List: Which players retained ahead of mega IPL auction? Check full list here