IPL 2025 Retention Rules: Top 10 Points you need to Know

Get ready for IPL 2025! Learn about the updated retention rules, increased auction purses, new match fees, player registration and retention deadline in detail.

IPL 2025 Retention & Mega Auction Rules

The upcoming TATA IPL 2025 season is set to bring about significant changes, as the IPL Governing Council has announced revisions to player retention rules and introduced new regulations in preparation for the upcoming auction. These changes, unveiled on September 28, 2024, come after productive discussions with franchise owners on July 31 at the BCCI Headquarters in Mumbai.

This article will delve into the key updates, such as player retention limits, auction dynamics, and withdrawal penalties, offering valuable insights for fans and franchise owners to navigate the evolving landscape of the IPL. These new rules aim to elevate the league’s competitiveness while ensuring continued excitement for all involved in the captivating world of the IPL.

IPL 2025 Retention Rules Explained

The upcoming season of IPL is set to offer a lot of new dynamics regarding new Player Regulations and team composition. Let’s explore the key changes that were announced by the IPL governing Council:

1. Player Retention Limits

Franchises can retain a total of six players from their existing squads. This can be done through either direct retention or by utilizing the one Right to Match (RTM) option, providing teams with flexibility in maintaining their core players.

2. Composition of Retained Players

Out of the six players retained, franchises may have a maximum of five capped players (including both Indian and overseas) and up to two uncapped players. This balance allows teams to keep experienced players while also nurturing emerging talent.

3. Increased Auction Purse

The auction purse for each franchise has been set at INR 120 Crore for IPL 2025. This is an increase from INR 100 Crore in the 2024 season. The total salary cap will now comprise the auction purse, incremental performance pay, and match fees, resulting in a total of INR 146 Crore for 2025, which will rise to INR 151 Crore in 2026 and INR 157 Crore in 2027.

4. Introduction of Match Fees

For the first time in IPL history, every playing member, including the Impact Players, will receive a match fee of INR 7.5 Lakhs for each match. This payment is separate from their contracted salary, incentivizing players to perform at their best. Each franchise has been allocated a maximum of INR 12.5 crore throughout the season.

5. Registration Requirement for Overseas Players

All overseas players are required to register for the mega auction. If they fail to register, they will not be eligible to participate in the following year’s player auction. This regulation ensures that franchises have access to committed players.

6. Strict Penalties for Withdrawal

A crucial new rule aims to address the issue of players withdrawing from the tournament shortly before it begins. In previous seasons, several overseas players who were bought at auction opted out last minute, affecting team dynamics. To prevent this disruption, any player who registers but later becomes unavailable before the season starts will face a two-season ban from both the tournament and future auctions. This rule has been introduced following discussions with franchise owners to maintain team stability.

7. Understanding Uncapped Player Classification

A capped Indian player can be classified as uncapped if they have not played in the starting XI of any international matches (Test, ODI, T20) in the last five calendar years or do not have a Central Contract with BCCI.

For instance, MS Dhoni, who retired after playing his last international cricket in 2019, could be considered an uncapped player under these new regulations. If CSK opts to retain him, they could utilize this classification, allowing them to manage their retention budget effectively. This scenario is purely hypothetical but illustrates the potential benefits for franchises. This rule applies only to Indian players.

8. Continuation of Impact Player Regulation

Despite speculation about its removal, the Impact Player regulation will continue to be in effect through the 2025 to 2027 cycles. This allows teams greater tactical flexibility during matches, maintaining an exciting dynamic in gameplay.

9. Retention List Submission Deadline

Franchises must submit their retention lists by October 31, 2024. This deadline is vital for teams to finalize their core groups and prepare for the auction, allowing for strategic planning.

10. Total Matches remain the same as in previous seasons 

The total number of matches for IPL 2025 will remain at 74, ensuring that player workload is managed effectively while still delivering an exciting season for fans.

For More details check out the official Press Advisory on the IPL Website.

Frequently Asked Questions Related to IPL 2025

  1. Will Dhoni play in IPL 2025?
    As of now, there is no official confirmation regarding MS Dhoni’s participation in IPL 2025.
  2. What is the IPL 2025 mega auction date?
    The mega auction is tentatively set for November 2024.
  3. How many players can be retained in the IPL mega auction 2025?
    Teams can retain up to six players, including capped and uncapped options.
  4. Where can I watch the IPL 2025 mega auction?
    Indian fans can watch the mega auction live on Star Sports Network and Hotstar.
  5. What is the IPL 2025 retention deadline?
    The retention list must be submitted by October 31, 2024.
  6. What are the penalties for unavailability after being picked?
    Players who become unavailable after being selected will face a two-season ban from participating in auctions or tournaments.
  7. What are the IPL 2025 match fees?
    Each player will receive INR 7.5 Lakhs per match, separate from their contract.
  8. Who is the IPL 2025 KKR new mentor?
    DJ Bravo has been appointed as the new mentor for KKR.
  9. What is a RTM card in the IPL 2025?
    The Right To Match card is used by a franchise to retain a player during the auction by matching the highest bid.
  10. What is the date of IPL 2025?
    The official date for IPL 2025 has yet to be announced

Conclusion

These key amendments in the rules and regulations established by the IPL Governing Council reflect a strong commitment to enhancing the competitive landscape for the upcoming IPL cycle from 2025 to 2027. This pivotal period will require teams and players to adapt their strategies as they navigate the new rules.

The tentative auction date is set for mid to late November, with the venue likely outside India, similar to last year’s mini-auction in the UAE. Fans in India can catch all the action on Star Sports Network and stream live on Hotstar. These developments promise an exciting season ahead, filled with intense rivalries and memorable moments that will elevate the IPL experience for everyone involved.

Also ReadISL 2024-25 Guide: New Rules, Format, Teams and Records

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