Sunrisers Hyderabad owner, Kavya Maran, has suggested significant changes to the player retention rules ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. During the IPL owners’ meeting at the BCCI Headquarters, Maran proposed increasing the number of player retentions or Right to Match (RTM) options to six per team. She explained that teams should have the flexibility to use these as four retentions and two RTMs, or all six as retentions or RTMs. This approach would allow franchises to maintain the core of their squads based on agreements with the players.
Addressing Player Preferences in Retentions
Maran highlighted that there have been instances where players preferred to enter the auction rather than being retained if they felt the retention amount was insufficient. Some players have expressed a desire to be the first retention choice, and if not, they preferred entering the auction. To address this, Maran suggested that players be given the option to be retained or RTM at a market-discovered price. This would ensure that players are satisfied with their retention terms, reducing any dissatisfaction over retention prices.
Ensuring Fair Compensation and Transparency
Kavya Maran emphasized the importance of transparency and fair compensation for players. She noted that if only retentions are allowed, franchises might pay more than the official retention value through unofficial contracts. However, with RTMs, players can receive the market price within the auction’s restrictions, ensuring that the salary cap controls all franchises’ spending rather than their financial resources. This approach would help maintain the IPL’s integrity and prestige by ensuring transparency in player salaries and contracts.
Penalties for Players Not Participating
Additionally, Maran suggested implementing penalties for players who choose not to participate in the tournament despite being selected in the auction, except in cases of serious injury. She proposed that such players should face a ban, ensuring commitment and accountability from players once they are chosen to play in the IPL. This would discourage players from withdrawing without valid reasons and ensure teams have reliable squads for the tournament.
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