As the excitement builds for the IPL 2025 season, the focus is on the player retention strategies of the ten franchises ahead of the much-anticipated mega auction. The IPL Mega Auction is a hallmark event that occurs every three years, allowing teams to retain a limited number of players while releasing the remainder into the auction pool. This article delves into the expected retained players for each franchise, highlighting key decisions that could shape the teams for the upcoming season.
Overview of Retention Rules
For IPL 2025, each franchise is permitted to retain up to four players, a rule that adds significant strategic depth to the retention process. Teams must weigh the value of retaining established stars against the potential benefits of acquiring new talent in the auction. The retention list is crucial as it sets the foundation for each team’s strategy going into the auction, which is expected to take place between December 2024 and February 2025.
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Expected Retained Players by Franchise
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
Chennai Super Kings, known for their strong legacy, are likely to retain:
- Ravindra Jadeja: A vital all-rounder; Jadeja’s contributions with both bat and ball make him indispensable.
- Ruturaj Gaikwad: Emerging as a reliable opener, Gaikwad has become a key player in CSK’s batting lineup.
- MS Dhoni: If available, Dhoni’s leadership and experience will ensure his retention, although his retirement remains a possibility.
- Shivam Dube: His all-round capabilities and recent performances make him a strong candidate for retention.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
The Delhi Capitals are expected to retain:
- Rishabh Pant: The dynamic wicketkeeper-batter is central to the team’s batting strategy.
- Axar Patel: His all-round skills and experience in the IPL make him a valuable asset.
- Kuldeep Yadav: A key spinner, Kuldeep has been effective in previous seasons.
- Jake Fraser-McGurk: An emerging talent who has shown promise in his appearances.
Gujarat Titans (GT)
The Gujarat Titans are likely to retain:
- Shubman Gill: A young and talented batsman; Gill’s form has been impressive.
- Rashid Khan: One of the top T20 bowlers globally; his retention is crucial for the bowling attack.
- Mohammed Shami: A seasoned fast bowler; Shami’s experience is invaluable.
- Sai Sudharsan: A promising talent who has made an impact in his limited appearances.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR is expected to retain:
- Shreyas Iyer: The captain and a key batsman for the franchise.
- Andre Russell: A game-changer with both bat and ball; his retention is vital.
- Sunil Narine: Known for his exceptional bowling and handy batting; Narine is a mainstay.
- Varun Chakravarthy: A leading spinner who has consistently performed well.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
For LSG, the retained players are likely to include:
- KL Rahul: The captain and a prolific run-scorer.
- Nicholas Pooran: A powerful hitter capable of changing the game in a few overs.
- Marcus Stoinis: An all-rounder who adds depth to the batting and bowling lineup.
- Mayank Yadav: An emerging talent with significant potential.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
The Mumbai Indians will probably retain:
- Rohit Sharma: The franchise captain and a key batsman.
- Jasprit Bumrah: One of the best bowlers in the world; his retention is essential.
- Suryakumar Yadav: A consistent performer in the middle order.
- Hardik Pandya: An explosive all-rounder who can change the course of a match.
Punjab Kings (PBKS)
Punjab Kings are expected to retain:
- Sam Curran: A dynamic all-rounder with international experience.
- Arshdeep Singh: A young pacer who has been impressive in recent seasons.
- Shashank Singh: A player who has shown promise in limited opportunities.
- Ashutosh Sharma: A rising star with potential to contribute significantly.
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
The Rajasthan Royals are likely to retain:
- Sanju Samson: The captain and a key batsman in the lineup.
- Jos Buttler: A world-class player known for his explosive batting.
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: A young talent who has made a mark in the league.
- Riyan Parag: An all-rounder who can contribute in various situations.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
RCB is expected to retain:
- Virat Kohli: A franchise icon and one of the best batsmen globally.
- Mohammed Siraj: A key bowler who has shown significant improvement.
- Glenn Maxwell: An explosive batsman who can change the game quickly.
- Cameron Green: A talented all-rounder who adds depth to the squad.
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
Finally, the Sunrisers Hyderabad are likely to retain:
- Bhuvneshwar Kumar: A seasoned bowler with vast experience.
- Abhishek Sharma: A versatile player who can contribute with bat and ball.
- T Natarajan: Known for his yorkers, he is a valuable asset in the bowling department.
- Travis Head: A record-breaking player with international experience who can strengthen the batting lineup.
