NEW DELHI: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has commenced discussions with Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises to finalize the retention process for the upcoming season. According to a Cricbuzz report, the policy is expected to be finalized by the end of this month. This initiative marks a crucial step in preparing for the mega auction scheduled for later this year.
Focus on Mega Auction
With the mega auction looming, the BCCI has already initiated the process and is actively seeking input from franchise CEOs. This dialogue aims to gather a broad spectrum of opinions and feedback regarding the retention policy and the salary cap for the next three years. The board’s proactive approach reflects its commitment to ensuring a fair and balanced system for all participating teams.
Retention Policy Discussions
The retention policy has sparked diverse opinions among the franchises. While most franchises have requested 5-7 retentions, one franchise has suggested allowing 8 retentions. In contrast, some franchises have proposed the idea of having no retentions at all. This range of opinions highlights the varying strategies and priorities of different teams.
In the 2021 IPL auction, franchises were allowed to retain a maximum of four players. This year, the BCCI is evaluating different perspectives to determine the optimal number of retentions and the overall purse for franchises. The board aims to strike a balance that will benefit both the franchises and the league as a whole.
Salary Cap and Impact Player Rule
Currently, the salary cap stands at Rs 100 crore, but an increase of Rs 20 crore is a strong possibility for the next auction. This potential increase reflects the growing financial stakes and the need to accommodate higher player salaries. Additionally, the BCCI is expected to maintain the Impact Player rule, which has been a significant aspect of the league’s gameplay dynamics.
Right To Match (RTM) Cards
In the 2021 auction, the Right To Match (RTM) cards were not utilized. This year, the BCCI has requested feedback from franchises on whether RTM cards should be reintroduced. The RTM card allows franchises to retain a player by matching the highest bid made by another team, adding an extra layer of strategy to the auction process.
Upcoming Meetings
The meeting between the BCCI and franchise CEOs is expected to take place by the end of July, as some CEOs are currently unavailable. These discussions will be pivotal in finalizing the policies and processes for the upcoming IPL season. The board is keen on addressing all concerns and ensuring that the retention and auction processes are transparent and equitable.
Conclusion
The BCCI’s initiation of the IPL retention process underscores its commitment to refining and enhancing the league’s operational framework. By engaging with franchise CEOs and considering various perspectives, the board aims to create a robust and well-balanced retention policy. The upcoming meetings and discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the IPL, ensuring it remains one of the most competitive and exciting cricket leagues in the world.(Dubai7 realmoneygame)