Franchise owners and the BCCI will meet on Wednesday, July 31 to discuss a variety of options regarding the IPL 2025 Auction. Six items on the agenda will be discussed at the BCCI’s headquarters (Wankhede Stadium Complex) at 7:30 PM. The talking points will decide how things will pan out at the upcoming 2025 mega auction.
Among the most debatable topics would be retentions and RTMs (Right to Match). Franchises have been divided over the number of retentions. The other big decision will be on RTMs which is likely to return.
Retentions, RTM & Salary cap for IPL 2025 Auction
The biggest discussion will be about player retention. Right now, each franchise can retain a maximum of four players (a maximum of two foreigners). The BCCI had asked the franchises for suggestions earlier and got varying responses, with some teams wanting as many as 8 retentions while others wanted just one. Some in the BCCI wanted all players to go back to the auction pool. However, as things stand, franchises could have 4-5 retentions ahead of the IPL 2025 Auction in December.
“There have been many suggestions but no concrete decision on anything regarding either retention or RTMs. We need to come to a common ground regarding both. Hopefully, we will find a middle ground as big players in auction are always an attraction,” a senior BCCI official told InsideSport.
Right to Match (RTM), which hasn’t been used since 2018, will also be talked about. Recently, the CEO of a franchise suggested the retention of only captains. Other potential players could return through RTMs.
An increase in salary caps is also expected. When the BCCI approached for suggestions, the IPL franchises unanimously suggested an increase of 20%, but a 10% increase is certain. Right now, teams receive Rs 100 crore to select their squad. And the total salary purse is likely to increase to Rs 110 Cr.
Future of mega auction & impact player rule
A rule change regarding the mega auction might already be in effect. Currently, the IPL follows a 3-year cycle when it comes to the mega auction, but that is likely to change to a 5-year cycle. Several franchises felt that after investing in young players, it isn’t fair that they can’t retain them for more than three years since you are allowed a small number of retentions.
The impact player rule is also under scrutiny. Players and coaches are vehemently against it. But the broadcasters are adamant about the continuation of the rule that was launched in 2023. The BCCI themselves are undecided about it continuing and will ask the IPL franchises about a potential change as well.
