IPL 2025: BCCI to Allow Teams Four Retentions Plus Two RTMs, Favouring Continuity Over Major Shake-ups

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly set to permit Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises to retain up to six players ahead of the 2025 IPL Auction.

As per a CricBlogger report, the rule will likely include four direct retentions and two Right to Match (RTM) cards, a system favoured by many teams. The retention structure allows franchises to safeguard the core of their existing squads, providing continuity and strategic stability for the upcoming season.

Three retention models have been under discussion, with the first option, featuring four retentions and two RTMs, gaining the most support among the teams. The other alternatives proposed retaining three players with either two or three RTMs, but these appear to be less popular.

The first option's appeal stems from the opportunity for teams to maintain a strong balance of senior players and emerging stars, including uncapped players.

IPL 2025 Retentions: BCCI Acquires Balanced Approach

The inclusion of uncapped players in the total retention count means that teams can not only hold onto their marquee players but also protect talented youngsters who are critical to their future success. The final retention policy is expected to be announced soon, which will shape team strategies ahead of the much-anticipated auction.

If adopted, this retention policy will benefit teams with well-established combinations. Powerhouses like Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Rajasthan Royals stand to gain the most, as they can secure both seasoned veterans and promising young talents, ensuring minimal disruption to their squads. These franchises have consistently performed well in the tournament and can now focus on fine-tuning their squads rather than a complete overhaul.

Key Franchises Poised to Benefit From Decision

For teams like Gujarat Titans, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Lucknow Supergiants, the retention policy also presents opportunities. These teams can protect key emerging players, particularly uncapped stars, essential for maintaining squad balance and long-term growth. The ability to hold onto their rising talent gives them a strategic edge, allowing them to build teams that are both competitive now and set for future success.

Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals Unhappy

However, not all franchises may welcome this retention structure. Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals, who were likely hoping for a larger-scale squad reshuffling through a mega auction, may find themselves at a disadvantage.

A mega auction would have allowed them to bring in fresh talent and revamp their squads more comprehensively, but with the proposed retention rules, their ability to build a new team core will be limited. This could result in a competitive gap between teams with well-settled squads and those in need of a significant refresh.

Still, with the majority of teams supporting the policy, it appears likely that the BCCI will move forward with allowing up to six retentions. As teams begin to strategize for the 2025 IPL Auction, the retention policy will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the dynamics of the tournament, with continuity being a key factor.