IPL Considers Retention Rule Changes for Retired Players
Introduction of New Retention Rule
A significant discussion took place during a recent meeting between the IPL and the owners of its ten franchises. The primary focus was on the retention rules ahead of the 2025 auction. One key topic was whether a cricketer retired for five years should be treated as an uncapped player at IPL auctions.
Historical Context and Current Debate
Historically, a rule allowing players retired from international cricket for at least five years to be considered uncapped existed from the first IPL season in 2008 but was scrapped in 2021. This rule, although never utilized, resurfaced in the latest meeting, drawing objections from multiple franchises.
Franchise Concerns
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) owner Kavya Maran voiced strong opposition, stating that retaining a retired player as an uncapped player would disrespect the individual and their market value. Maran argued it would set a “wrong precedent” if uncapped players were paid more than former internationals retained as uncapped. She recommended that such players enter the auction to let the market determine their price. Other franchise representatives also expressed reservations about the proposal.
Confusion Over Origin of Suggestion
ESPNcricinfo initially reported that the suggestion came from CSK to retain MS Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020. However, the clarification was later made that the proposal originated from the IPL itself. Dhoni’s potential continuation in the IPL has been a topic of speculation, especially after his knee surgery and subsequent limited role in the 2024 season.
Unanimous Agreement on Lower Base Prices
Support for Lower Base Prices
Despite the disagreements on the retention rule, franchises unanimously supported the idea of allowing Indian players who hadn’t played international cricket for five years to lower their base prices at the auction. Currently, the lowest base price for capped Indian players is set at INR 50 lakh.
Proposal by IPL Chief Operating Officer
Hemang Amin, the IPL chief operating officer, proposed this change, suggesting it would increase the chances of these players being bought at the auction. A franchise head highlighted that many capped Indians with high base prices often go unsold despite multiple appearances in the auction.
Conclusion
The discussions and potential changes to the retention rules and base prices indicate IPL’s ongoing efforts to balance respect for retired players while ensuring fair market value in the auction. The final decisions will likely impact the strategies and composition of teams in the upcoming seasons.(online casino games)