BCCI set to delay announcement of IPL retention rule: Details
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering a postponement in the disclosure of the Indian Premier League (IPL) retention rules. The information, currently circulating among IPL franchise owners and officials, suggests that this announcement could be delayed until the end of September. As per Cricbuzz, it's speculated that the policy might be revealed around the time of BCCI's Annual General Meeting (AGM), scheduled to take place in Bengaluru on September 29.
No formal communication from BCCI
While there is no direct correlation between the AGM and IPL policies, the BCCI could still surprise everyone by releasing the policy in the next few days. The report adds that most IPL officials believe that this announcement may take at least 10 days to two weeks. Despite no formal communication confirming this delay, it's understood that BCCI officials have hinted at a postponement to franchises who have recently inquired about these retention rules.
Initial announcement was expected in August
The BCCI had initially planned to announce the retention policy by the end of August, a timeline openly shared by board officials following last month's owners' meeting in Mumbai. However, as the deadline approached, franchise officials reached out to the BCCI and were reportedly informed of a further delay, with an understanding that it will now be disclosed toward September-end.
Franchises have time until mid-November
Regardless of when the BCCI announces the retention policy, it's now understood that franchises will have time until November 15 to make a final call on their retention decisions. The auction, likely scheduled for December, will certainly feature the Right to Match (RTM) options too. This provides franchises with an extended window to make strategic decisions about player retentions ahead of the upcoming IPL season.
BCCI considering reclassification of retired international players
The BCCI is also contemplating a contentious move to categorize retired international players as uncapped. This policy may not be specifically aimed at placing MS Dhoni in the 'uncapped' category and aiding Chennai Super Kings (CSK), since it's in the league's interest if Dhoni makes himself available for one more season. CSK officials have stated that if Dhoni decides to play next season, he would be one of their retentions, even if the BCCI permits only two retentions.
BCCI could retain 74-match format
The BCCI is considering retaining the 74-match format for the IPL in 2025. BCCI's media rights and sponsorship contracts initially proposed an 84-match format for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, which was set to increase to 94 matches in 2027. The 74-match structure has been well-received for its competitive balance and fan engagement. However, the decision to increase matches is at the discretion of the BCCI and not a contractual obligation.
Focus on Dhoni and KL Rahul ahead of IPL retention
KL Rahul met with LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, fueling speculation about his future with the team. Rahul's future at LSG is a doubt with reports claiming he could join another side. Notably, Rahul had a decent IPL 2024 with LSG as he scored 520 runs, striking at 37.14. Meanwhile, Dhoni is likely to be retained as an uncapped player for the next season, highlighting his continued influence and commitment to the IPL.
