October 9, 2024

‘If Franchise Released Them, Then Why Buy Back?’: Ravi Ashwin Suggests a New Right-to-Match (RTM) Card, But With a Twist

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) gears up for the mega-auction, the Right-to-Match (RTM) card is expected to return. However, veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is against reinstating the rule in its current form. He suggested making a small adjustment instead. The RTM card allows a team to repurchase a player they did not retain from the most recent season by matching the highest bid that player receives in the auction.

“If a franchise has released a player because they don’t see him in their top four or five, then what gives them the right to jump in during an auction,” he questioned.

Ashwin proposed that if a team feels a player is no longer part of their future plans, they shouldn’t have the option to reclaim him through the RTM card. Instead, he suggested a player-centric approach. In his version of the rule, the player would have a say in whether they want to be brought back via RTM. The player could set a predetermined price, giving them more control over the process.

“You give the option to the player asking if he wants to be right to match. There should be a contract binding the two parties, which says he can be RTMed only if the price is X amount and leave that pre-determined amount to be decided by the player.”

The IPL has yet to confirm the official rules, retention policy, or if the RTM card will be part of the upcoming auction. There is also a possibility that the tournament could introduce an entirely new structure. The mega-auction will be an exciting event as many teams aim to revamp or rebuild their squads with fresh talent, giving them the best chance to compete for the title.

Read More: Pat Cummins To KL Rahul: 5 Players Likely To Be Released Ahead Of IPL 2025 Mega Auction

Virat Kohli To Faf du Plessis: 5 Players RCB Can Retain Ahead Of IPL 2025 Mega Auction

Royal Challengers Bangalore made a remarkable comeback in the second half of IPL 2024, securing a playoff spot. However, they were knocked out by Rajasthan Royals in the eliminator match in Ahmedabad, once again missing out on their first-ever IPL title. Heading into the 2025 season, RCB will be eager to put on a strong performance and aim for the championship.

Before the 18th edition of the IPL, RCB faces a tough challenge: they must retain only a few key players and release the rest for the mega auction. With several quality players in their 2024 squad, making those decisions won’t be easy.

Read More: James Anderson To Play In IPL 2025? Former England Pacer Aim To Make Comeback In T20s

Here’s a look at five players RCB can retain ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

Virat Kohli: Virat Kohli made his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 18, 2008, and has been with the franchise ever since. As the all-time leading run scorer in IPL history, he remains the only player to have played for a single team in all IPL editions. Kohli finished as the highest run scorer in IPL 2024 and is certain to be retained by RCB ahead of the 2025 auction.

Will Jacks: The young English all-rounder made his IPL debut for RCB in 2024 and made a huge impact, scoring a century off just 41 balls against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium. At 25, Jacks is seen as a key player for RCB’s future, offering explosive batting at the top and effective off-spin bowling, particularly in the powerplay.

Mohammed Siraj: Leading RCB’s pace attack in IPL 2024, Siraj, at 30, has established himself as one of the top pacers in the league. Given RCB’s trust in his abilities over recent seasons, Siraj is expected to be retained as a vital part of their bowling unit.

Faf du Plessis: RCB’s captain for the past three seasons, Faf du Plessis led the team to the playoffs twice. Despite turning 41 next year, his performances in IPL 2024 and Major League Cricket (MLC) suggest he still has plenty of cricket left. RCB is likely to retain him, considering his experience and leadership.

Rajat Patidar: Patidar was in outstanding form during IPL 2024, scoring 395 runs with a strike rate of 177.13 in 15 matches. His aggressive batting in the middle order provided RCB with a crucial edge, making him a strong candidate for retention ahead of the 2025 season.

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