(Source X)
The much-anticipated gathering between the BCCI and the IPL franchises is slated for July 31. The agenda of this meeting is to finalize the regulations for the forthcoming mega auction preceding the IPL 2025 season.
All attention is focused on this meeting as it will provide clarity to the franchises regarding player retentions and Right-to-Match (RTM) options. Currently, there is uncertainty surrounding the number of players each franchise can retain or reacquire during the auction. Recent discussions have seen franchises offering their suggestions to BCCI officials during a feedback session.
Further details are expected to emerge post the meeting scheduled by the end of this month. According to a Cricbuzz report, while the exact venue for the meeting remains unconfirmed, it is likely to be held at the Cricket Centre, situated at the BCCI headquarters within Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium complex.
Hemang Amin, the IPL CEO, has informed franchise owners via text messages on Thursday (July 25), assuring them that formal invitations specifying the venue and timing will follow shortly. The report confirms that all IPL franchise owners have confirmed their availability for this pivotal session.
Player retention and RTM options under scrutiny in IPL meeting.
Currently, the specifics around player retentions per team remain uncertain, though indications suggest a conservative approach. Feedback sessions revealed a spectrum of preferences among franchises, proposing anywhere from one to eight retained players. Nevertheless, the BCCI appears inclined towards a moderate stance, likely permitting teams to retain between 5 to 6 players.
The BCCI’s cautious approach stems from a desire to maintain the auction’s allure. Allowing too many retentions—potentially up to 80 players—could detract from the auction’s excitement by limiting the availability of top global talent.
Regarding the Right-to-Match (RTM) option, its status remains contentious, with discussions expected at the upcoming meeting. Reports hint that the BCCI may have already formulated its stance on this matter.
In the 2021 mega-auction, RTMs were absent, but now, there’s a call from several franchises to reintroduce more RTMs. The BCCI faces the task of devising a proposal that garners consensus among all stakeholders before the final decision is made.
