The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the Indian Premier League (IPL) player retention rules by the end of August, according to a report by Cricbuzz. The report suggests that the BCCI will likely allow each of the 10 IPL franchises to retain up to six players, including the option to use the Right to Match (RTM) card. Despite some franchises expressing a preference to eliminate the ‘Mega Auction,’ the BCCI is reportedly not considering any changes to the existing structure.
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, in a recent interview, emphasized the importance of continuity in the IPL. Speaking to the Times of India, Shah stated, “We’ve heard the views of all the franchises. For us, a minority view is as important as the majority opinion. Ultimately, the office-bearers of the BCCI will decide. Those who have a good side said there is no need for the big auction, and those without a good side wanted the big auction. Continuity is important, as is shuffling, for the growth of the game.”
Another major topic on the BCCI’s agenda is the potential increase in the number of matches for the next IPL season, from 74 to 84. With the IPL expanding from eight to 10 teams, the number of matches has not risen proportionally. Ideally, there should be 94 matches, including playoffs and the final, based on a home-and-away format. However, the BCCI faces challenges due to a packed international calendar, player workload, and limited scheduling windows.
“Nothing is confirmed,” Shah noted. “We will collectively decide. We have to factor in the workload of the players and the available window. It’s in the contract, but it is up to the BCCI to decide.”
Regarding the impact player rule, Shah revealed that the BCCI had an extensive discussion with franchise owners. “The impact player rule has its pros and cons,” Shah explained. “The negative is that it makes the allrounder’s role redundant. The positive is that it creates a spot for an Indian player to showcase his talent. We should also think about the broadcaster, who is paying a lot of money. But as an administrator, for me, the game is bigger. We will decide in a few days.”
The BCCI’s forthcoming decisions are expected to shape the structure and scheduling of the IPL significantly, impacting teams, players, and the overall dynamics of the tournament.
