(Source X)
In a new update, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering permitting IPL franchises to retain uncapped players for the upcoming IPL 2025 mega-auction. Reports suggest each franchise might have the opportunity to retain up to two uncapped players.
The potential list of uncapped players eligible for retention is extensive. Many franchises have nurtured promising young talents over the seasons, making significant investments in their development. Consequently, these teams are keen to secure their young talents and prevent their loss during the mega-auction.
BCCI may allow franchises to retain uncapped players.
As reported by The Times of India, there is a possibility that uncapped players may be retained by franchises through a distinct category. Earlier reports had hinted at an increase in the auction purse, potentially raising it from INR 90 crore to a range of INR 130-140 crore.
“Every franchise could be allowed to retain, say, two to three uncapped players from their squad in the 2024 IPL season under an additional slot. The franchises are likely to push for it. Almost all the franchises have developed certain uncapped players which they don’t want to lose since they have invested in them over the last two three years,” a source was quoted as saying by the TOI.
Additionally, a source verified that the focal point of discussion during the upcoming meeting between the BCCI and IPL franchises will be the number of players allowed for retention. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the BCCI headquarters within the Wankhede Stadium Complex on Wednesday, July 31st.
“A major time of the meeting is likely to be consumed in discussing retentions, which are likely to be not more than five or six in number, more time (five years from three) in the frequency of the mega auction, an increase in purse and performance-based increments for a player,” a source said to TOI.
IPL teams are investing in uncapped players for the future.
Several IPL teams have invested significantly in nurturing uncapped players over the years. For instance, Mumbai Indians have developed talents such as Akash Madhwal, Nehal Wadhera, and Naman Dhir, whom they are reluctant to lose at this stage.
Similarly, Chennai Super Kings boast promising youngsters like Mukesh Choudhary, Sameer Rizvi, and Akash Madhwal. Kolkata Knight Riders have also put resources into nurturing Suyash Sharma, Vaibhav Arora, and Ramandeep Singh. Sunrisers Hyderabad values Abdul Samad and Nitish Kumar Reddy, eager to retain them for the upcoming mega-auction.
Even newer teams like Lucknow Super Giants have found success with fast bowlers Mohsin Khan and Mayank Yadav, likely to be retained if given the chance.
Royal Challengers Bangalore have made investments in players like Yash Dayal, Anuj Rawat, Mahipal Lomror, and Vijaykumar Vyshak, showing their commitment to nurturing talent.
Ahead of the IPL 2022 mega-auction, franchises were allowed to retain up to four players, with specific limits on Indian and overseas players, but without Right-to-Match cards. However, reports suggest that one RTM card might be allowed this time around.
Despite some drawbacks, sources indicate that the controversial Impact Player rule, which has been criticized for limiting all-rounders’ contributions, is likely to remain. It is believed that this rule aligns with broadcasters’ desires for high-scoring games, thus influencing its potential retention.
