CSK, MI, RCB to KKR, List of RTM Buys by all Franchises at the IPL Auction 2025

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The IPL Auction 2025 saw some exciting drama as franchises used their Right to Match (RTM) cards to retain players or outbid rivals. The RTM card gave teams a unique advantage to hold on to key players, even after they were bid on by other franchises.

Here's a detailed breakdown of all the RTM buys at the auction, including some of the most exciting bidding wars.

RTM Buys by IPL 2025 Franchises

How Each Team Exercised their RTM Cards

Chennai Super Kings:
Chennai Super Kings were strategic in using their RTM card for New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra. Initially purchased by Punjab Kings for Rs 3.2 crore, CSK raised the bid to Rs 4 crore to bring him back into the fold. Ravindra, who has shown promise with both bat and ball, was an important retention for CSK, who already have a strong squad. CSK's decision to use RTM indicated their trust in the player’s potential and value.

Delhi Capitals:
Delhi Capitals made significant moves with their RTM cards. First, they retained Australian opener Jake Fraser-McGurk for a whopping Rs 9 crore, after Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants aggressively pursued him. Delhi then exercised their RTM card for Mukesh Kumar, the Bengal pacer, who was previously bid for by Punjab Kings. Delhi matched the Rs 8 crore bid and secured him. Mukesh has quickly become a vital asset for DC, known for his seam bowling and ability to take key wickets in pressure situations.

Gujarat Titans:
Gujarat Titans brought R Sai Kishore back into their squad for Rs 2 crore, despite releasing him earlier. The Tamil Nadu spinner, known for his economy rates and consistency, was first bought by CSK and is now retained by Gujarat after a modest bid. Kishore is expected to add more depth to their spin department in the upcoming season.

Lucknow Super Giants:
Lucknow Super Giants used their RTM card for West Indian pacer Shamar Joseph, after Mumbai Indians initiated a bid for him. Shamar was with LSG last season, but his limited opportunities meant he wasn’t a regular starter. LSG saw potential in him and decided to retain him by matching Mumbai’s bid.

Mumbai Indians:
Mumbai Indians were strategic in their RTM decision by using it to secure Naman Dhir, a promising Indian batter, for Rs 5.25 crore. Despite Rajasthan Royals having initially placed a bid of Rs 3.4 crore, Mumbai exercised their RTM card to ensure they didn’t lose the young talent. This move was crucial as MI looked to bolster their middle order with young, promising Indian players.

Punjab Kings:

Punjab Kings used their RTM card for Arshdeep Singh, one of the best emerging pacers in India. The left-arm seamer was initially picked up by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 15.75 crore, but Punjab matched their bid to retain him. Known for his death bowling and ability to swing the ball, Arshdeep has been a key figure for Punjab Kings and was a high priority for retention.

Royal Challengers Bangalore:
Royal Challengers Bangalore used their RTM option to re-sign Swapnil Singh, a talented spinner. Despite initial bids by Delhi Capitals, RCB matched the Rs 50 lakh bid to ensure Swapnil's return to the squad. Swapnil, a left-arm spinner, adds much-needed variety to the RCB bowling attack, and his return strengthens their spin options.

The RTM rule proved to be a game-changer in the IPL 2025 auction, with teams like CSK, DC, and Punjab Kings successfully retaining key players. While many franchises did not exercise their RTM options, those who did were able to secure key players at inflated prices. As the auction progresses, teams will continue to build their squads with strategic buys, and the RTM cards remain an important part of the process.