BCCI likely to stick with 3+1 retention rule in Indian Premier League ahead of 2025 auction

The Indian Premier League 2024 culminated recently, where Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinched their third title in the history of the mega event. Meanwhile, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) is now in favour to stick with its 3+1 retention policy ahead of the mouthwatering 2025 auctions.

Reports have suggested that all the franchises are not in favour of increasing the Right To Match card, where up to eight such players may be allowed to stay with the team. Furthermore, it is understood that barring a few franchises, none of them could actually retain up to six or eight players. As a result, the apex body may not tilt its ship towards any other retention policies ahead of the forthcoming edition.

“Increasing retentions to say 6 or eight and then also having RTMs will make auctions a useless exercise. Auctions have added to the beauty of the IPL and giving it lesser importance will not help in keeping the league in good health,” an official was quoted as saying by News18.

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Some teams in the league have also opined their concerns to allow more than three to four players being retained. This comes amid some teams' explaining a lack of loyal fanbase due to frequent change of star players to represent their franchise on the big stage. The official further stated that the auctions do bring a flavour to the league, it is only fair to give some time before any feasible solution is made.

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“Yes, that’s a concern for a lot of teams but we can’t compare fan bases in IPL to fan bases of EPL clubs. It’s still too early for that to happen in the IPL. That is why it has happened to only handful of teams in the IPL. It will take time. And if there is desperation to make that happen, get rid of the auction and introduce a draft. Let there be a transfer system. Again, auctions bring a flavour to the IPL,” adds the official.