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October 7, 2024
MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma are regarded as the most successful captains in IPL history. Dhoni has led the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to five IPL titles, while Rohit has achieved the same feat with the Mumbai Indians (MI). Both have significantly contributed to the league and are among its biggest stars.
Interestingly, one top player has never participated in an IPL auction: he has played all 17 seasons for the same franchise. Unlike many others, Dhoni and Rohit have been through the auction process at different points in their careers. Dhoni was picked by CSK for around Rs 6 crore in the inaugural auction in 2008, while Rohit joined the Deccan Chargers as a rookie in the same auction. In 2011, MI re-auctioned and signed him, where he became their most successful captain.
In IPL history, Virat Kohli stands out for having yet to participate in an auction despite playing in all 17 seasons. The legendary Indian batsman was signed by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) during the pre-season draft in 2008. Despite experiencing ups and downs in his performance, RCB showed unwavering faith in Kohli, retaining him ahead of the IPL 2011 mega-auction. This marked the true beginning of his journey with the franchise, as he transformed from a promising young talent into the face of the team.
Kohli’s consistent performances and leadership skills led to his retention by RCB in the mega-auctions of 2014, 2018, and 2022. At one point, he was the highest-paid player in the league, earning Rs 17 crore. His loyalty to RCB and the franchise’s trust in him make him the only player to have played in every IPL season without entering the auction. However, a significant achievement still eludes Kohli: the IPL trophy. Despite reaching three finals, RCB has never clinched the title.
After retiring from T20I cricket after winning the 2024 World Cup, Kohli remains hopeful of lifting the IPL trophy before retiring. As one of cricket’s greats and a future ICC Hall of Famer, Kohli’s legacy in the IPL is secure, but a championship would be the perfect crowning achievement. His future with RCB is clear: he will retire as the only player to have participated in every IPL season without ever being part of the auction, highlighting his unparalleled loyalty and stature in the league. As the former captain of RCB and Team India, Kohli’s story is about resilience, commitment, and a passionate desire to secure that elusive IPL trophy before hanging up his boots.
Read More: No MS Dhoni In IPL 2025? CSK Legend Returns From USA
As anticipation builds for the IPL 2025 mega auction, cricket fans are excited to see how teams will adapt to the new retention rules. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) plans to implement significant changes, including raising the retention cap and eliminating Right to Match (RTM) cards. This will force franchises to make tough decisions about retaining their star players. Here are ten critical insights into the expected auction dynamics that could reshape the league’s future, promising a thrilling season!
Franchises can retain up to five players, offering them greater flexibility to keep their core team intact. This shift from the previous limit of four players enhances teams’ ability to hold onto their critical talents.
Unlike previous auctions, right-to-match (RTM) cards are unlikely to be permitted this time around. This change means franchisees must make careful decisions about releasing key players, as they won’t be able to reclaim them during the auction.
Franchises can retain a combination of up to three Indian players, emphasizing the significance of nurturing homegrown talent. This strategy allows teams to maintain a robust local core, ensuring a solid foundation of players familiar with the league and its competitive environment.
Reports indicate that the salary cap may increase from INR 100 to INR 120 crore. This rise will give franchisees greater financial flexibility, enabling them to invest in top-tier talent and make significant roster changes.
Check out: IPL 2025: BCCI To Allow 5 Retentions Ahead Of Mega Auction
Teams may be permitted to retain 2-3 uncapped players in addition to their primary retention list. This change aims to foster the development of young domestic talent while ensuring continuity within the squad.
The controversial Impact Player Rule, introduced to allow flexible substitutions during matches, may be scrapped. If this happens, the IPL will return to a more traditional match strategy, focusing on standard player lineups and tactics.
With the expanded retention rules, franchises like the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings will aim to safeguard their star players. However, teams with fewer superstars will need more support with which players to retain as they strive to build competitive squads while navigating the auction landscape.
The auction is anticipated in late November or early December 2024, giving teams ample time to strategize and prepare for the upcoming roster reshuffle. This timeframe allows franchises to carefully assess their needs and make informed decisions before the auction.
Despite the larger retention pool, franchises are expected to keep their star players while releasing others to bid aggressively for new talent. This strategy will create a dynamic auction environment where teams can refresh their rosters and enhance their competitiveness for the upcoming season.
CSK’s decision to retain MS Dhoni is likely to dominate headlines. His legacy and leadership qualities are expected to remain central to CSK’s strategies for the 2025 season, ensuring he continues to play a vital role in the team’s direction and performance.
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