IPL Mega Auction 2025: Key Updates on Player Retentions, RTM Card, and Rule Changes

IPLMega Auctuon 2025: The Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to host an exciting mega auction ahead of the 2025 season, with important updates regarding Retention of Players and Right to Match (RTM) cards set to fuel the anticipation among fans and teams alike.

Uncapped player rules and MS Dhoni

A noteworthy rule update has been introduced regarding the classification of uncapped players. “An Indian player who is currently representing the national team has not made a start for India in any international format (Test, ODI or T20I) in the 5 calendar years preceding the relevant IPL season or has not played for India , will be deemed to have not played for the national team under a central contract with the BCCI,” the IPL confirmed in its press release. This rule only applies to Indian players.

The change opens the door for players like MS Dhoni, who last played for India in 2019, to be classified as an uncapped player when their team decides to retain or select them during the auction.

Availability of foreign players

One of the main concerns raised by team owners is overseas players taking advantage of the auction system. In recent years, some players have either withdrawn at the last minute or only participated in smaller auctions in search of higher salaries. To address this issue, we have made two significant decisions, including the potential for a two-season ban for violators.

Summary of IPL’s statement:

1. “Overseas players must register to participate in the big auction, otherwise they will lose their qualifications for the next year’s player auction.”

2. “If a player registers for an auction and, after being selected, is unable to play before the start of the season, they will face a two-season ban from competition and future auctions.”

These measures are intended to curb such practices and ensure a more transparent auction process.

Also Read | When and where will the IPL 2025 mega auction be held, these two cities are leading the race, check full details

Influence Player Rules

The impact player rule is confirmed to last until 2027. Despite being scrutinized by various stakeholders, the rule was revisited during the IPL Governing Council meeting. However, officials did not provide reasons for the decision to extend the implementation period. This rule was introduced to increase flexibility and strategy in team formation and will continue to be a part of the IPL format in the coming seasons.

Auction of player wallets and match fees

Auction funding per franchise has been increased by 20% and is expected to increase further in the coming years. The total price of the 2025 IPL auction is INR 120 crore. “The total salary cap will now include auction funds, incremental performance pay and match fees. Earlier, in 2024, the total salary cap (auction funds + incremental performance pay) was Rs 110 crore, it will now be Rs 146 crore and it will be Rs 151 crore in 2025 Rs. 1.57 billion in 2027.”

This is a historic initiative that celebrates consistency and supports the #IPLwe are pleased to introduce match fee of Rs 7.50 Lakh per match for our cricketers! Cricketers who play in all leagues in a season will receive Rs. Rs 105 crore besides his… — Jay Shah (@JayShah) September 28, 2024

Additionally, the newly introduced match fee structure is designed to benefit players participating in all leagues. Now, in addition to the contract amount, the player will also receive a match fee of INR 7.5 lakh per game.

Also Read | IPL Auction 2025: Who are the 10 most expensive players in IPL auction history?