IPL franchises announced their retentions for the 2025 season on Thursday, heading into the mega auctions to be held later this year. While some top players were retained by their respective franchises, some of the prominent players got released by their sides. On that note, let us check out some surprise releases made by the franchises in IPL 2025 retention.
Surprise releases in IPL 2025 retention
Shreyas Iyer (KKR)
The winning captain of IPL 2024, Shreyas Iyer was not retained by KKR for the upcoming IPL edition. Speaking on the topic, KKR CEO, Venky Mysore said that the KKR camp had to make some tough decisions because they had more players to retain than they were allowed. Under Shreyas Iyer’s leadership, KKR clinched its third IPL trophy but they will now search for a new skipper for the upcoming edition.
Arshdeep Singh (PBKS)
Another surprising release was made by PBKS as they left out Arshdeep Singh who has been with Punjab since his debut back in IPL 2019. The left-arm bowler was released on Thursday. He has played 65 matches and taken 76 wickets, including a five-wicket haul.
Yuzvendra Chahal (RR)
The leading wicket-taker in IPL, Yuzvendra Chahal, was surprisingly released by the Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2025. After being released by RCB, Chahal was purchased by Rajasthan a few seasons back as he delivered for the Jaipur-based franchise. However, the Royals might try to rope in Chahal by using their right to match card.
Mohd Siraj (RCB)
The release of Mohd Siraj came as a surprise for everyone as the fast bowler has been an integral part of the RCB camp for years. In IPL 2024, Siraj finished as the second most wicket-taker for RCB. Surprisingly, RCB has opted to retain Yash Dayal but not Siraj. Apart from Dayal, the Bengaluru franchise has also retained Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar.
