BCCI Deliberates on IPL Retention Rules
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is currently deliberating on the retention rules for the Indian Premier League (IPL) ahead of the mega auction scheduled before the 2025 edition. The existing 3+1 rule, which allows three retentions and one Right to Match (RTM) card, has garnered significant support, but opinions among franchises are divided.
Concerns Over Increased Retentions
A senior official from an IPL franchise noted that only a few teams could afford to retain 6-8 players, whereas for others, such a move would undermine the auction’s significance. “Increasing retentions to six or eight, along with RTMs, would render the auctions pointless. The auctions have added a unique flavor to the IPL, and diminishing their importance could harm the league’s vitality,” said a veteran team official.
Building a Loyal Fan Base
The debate on the ideal retention rule is ongoing, with some franchises expressing concerns about building a loyal fan base due to frequent player movements. Historically, only a few players, like Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, have remained with a single team. This issue, however, is unlikely to be resolved without eliminating the auction in favor of a draft system and a transfer window.
The Role of Auctions in IPL
An official pointed out that while the IPL’s fan base can’t yet be compared to that of EPL clubs, the league needs time to mature. “If there’s a need for stable fan bases, we should consider a draft and transfer system. Auctions are part of what makes the IPL special,” he added.
Proposals for Right to Match Cards
Kolkata Knight Riders’ CEO Venky Mysore proposed allowing eight RTM cards per team, giving players auction value while enabling teams to reacquire them. Harsha Bhogle mentioned this suggestion in a YouTube video, but it would still alter the auction dynamics significantly.
Support for Increased Retentions
Another official from a franchise that invests heavily in scouting and grooming players supported increasing retentions, highlighting that even struggling teams like Punjab Kings have identified their core players. “For teams that didn’t perform well, increased retentions help maintain continuity,” he said.
Future Discussions and Decisions
The BCCI was expected to discuss these issues with team owners during the 2024 IPL season, but the meeting was canceled, and a new date hasn’t been set. It is unlikely to happen during the T20 World Cup, with a tentative possibility in June.
Reviewing the Impact Player Rule
In addition to retention rules, the Impact Player rule will also be reviewed. Many, including captain Rohit Sharma and various coaches, believe it favors batters too much. BCCI secretary Jay Shah mentioned that while the Impact Player rule allows two Indian players more chances to play, its future will be decided after consulting stakeholders post-World Cup. “The Impact Player is a test case. We will review it and decide after the World Cup,” Shah said.(Dubai7 realmoneygame)