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The Indian Premier League (IPL) Governing Council (GC) introduced several major changes on Saturday, September 28, which will shape the landscape of the IPL 2025 season. These include new guidelines on player retention, Right to Match (RTM) options, auction rules, match fees, and increased salary caps. These changes are intended to provide more flexibility to franchises while maintaining fair competition across the league.
Player retention and RTM rules
In a significant shift for the 2025 season, the IPL announced that franchises can retain up to six players, using either direct retentions or RTM options. This new policy gives teams a lot of strategic flexibility in deciding which players to hold on to. According to the official IPL statement, “Franchises have the option to retain a maximum of six players either by direct retention or RTM.” Out of these six retained players, a maximum of five can be capped, which means they may have represented their country at the international level, while up to two can be uncapped players who are yet to make their international debut.
This change allows franchises to strike a balance between retaining experienced players and giving emerging talents an opportunity. With a mix of capped and uncapped players, teams can maintain a competitive edge while managing their auction budgets efficiently. However, the number and type of players retained will directly impact the auction purse, meaning the financial dynamics of each team will vary significantly. For instance, if a franchise decides to retain five capped players and one uncapped player, it would lose a minimum of INR 79 crore from their auction purse, substantially affecting their ability to bid for other top players during the auction.
Auction purse increased for 2025
Another major announcement is the increase in the auction purse, which has gone up by 20% compared to previous years. For IPL 2025, each franchise will now have INR 120 crore available for the auction, a significant rise from the INR 100 crore available previously. This move aims to promote a more competitive auction, with teams having the resources to bid more aggressively for marquee players.
Additionally, the total salary cap for each team now includes not only the auction purse but also incremental performance pay and match fees. The BCCI’s release stated, “The new salary cap for 2025 will be INR 146 crore, which will rise to INR 151 crore in 2026 and further to INR 157 crore in 2027.” This increase is designed to reflect the growing revenues and popularity of the IPL, ensuring that players are compensated adequately. The higher salary cap also allows teams to balance retaining top talents while also being able to bring in promising newcomers to strengthen their squads.
Changes in uncapped player rules
A notable rule change was made concerning who qualifies as an uncapped player. Previously, any player who had represented India at the international level was classified as a capped player. Now, according to the new guidelines, “An Indian player will be classified as uncapped if they have not played in the starting XI in any international match—Test, ODI, or T20I—within the last five years or do not hold a central contract with the BCCI.” This new criterion will be applicable only to Indian players.
This rule provides a fresh opportunity for veteran players like MS Dhoni, who last played for India in 2019, to be considered uncapped during the retention process. It offers flexibility to teams interested in retaining popular players who may no longer be in international contention but still hold immense value due to their IPL experience and leadership qualities. It also helps these veteran players remain attractive assets in the auction market.
Overseas player availability and auction compliance
A key concern raised by team owners has been the behavior of overseas players around the auction system. In recent seasons, some overseas players have been manipulating the process by pulling out at the last minute or making themselves available only for smaller auctions, thus seeking higher paychecks. To address this issue, the IPL GC has brought in stringent rules to ensure compliance and deter such practices.
The first rule mandates that all overseas players must register for the main auction to be eligible for participation. Any player failing to do so will not be allowed to register for the following year’s auction. Secondly, if a player registers for the auction and is subsequently picked by a franchise, but then makes themselves unavailable without a valid reason before the start of the season, they will be banned from participating in the IPL for the next two seasons.
However, exceptions will be made for players who withdraw due to verified medical reasons, confirmed by their respective cricket boards. These new guidelines are intended to bring stability to franchise squads and minimize disruptions caused by last-minute player withdrawals.
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Impact player rule to continue?
The controversial “Impact Player” rule, which was introduced in recent seasons, is set to continue until at least 2027. The rule has been both praised and criticized, with some questioning its impact on the competitive balance of matches. Despite this, the IPL GC has decided to retain the rule, as no changes were officially announced. The “Impact Player” rule allows teams to substitute one player at any stage during the match, which can drastically alter the outcome of a game. Its continuation reflects the league’s commitment to keeping the format dynamic and allowing franchises more tactical options during matches.
Player loan concept reinstated
Another notable update is the reinstatement of the “Player Loan” concept. This system allows franchises to loan out players to other teams, potentially providing a solution for teams that have an excess of quality players in certain positions while other teams face shortages. In previous seasons, this rule was not utilized, as franchises were hesitant to loan out their players to competitors. However, the reinstatement of the rule provides a valuable option that teams can explore, particularly in scenarios where injuries or other issues create gaps in their squad. Whether this concept will gain traction in IPL 2025 remains to be seen.
Introduction of match fees for players
In a move aimed at benefiting players, the IPL has introduced a match fee of INR 7.5 lakh for each game played, in addition to the players’ contracted salaries. This new match fee is particularly advantageous for players who participate in all league games, ensuring that they are rewarded not only for being part of the squad but also for their consistent presence on the field. This additional financial incentive could motivate players to maintain peak fitness and strive for more game time, adding value both for themselves and their franchises. It also acknowledges the effort and commitment players make to perform at their best throughout the grueling IPL season.
