Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are facing a key decision regarding their retention strategy for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. With the retention deadline set for October 31, CSK must decide how to allocate retention funds between their captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and long-time all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. According to reports from the Times of India, CSK might opt to offer both Gaikwad and Jadeja equal salaries, though a final decision is yet to be made.
Retention Slabs and Pay Scale
The IPL retention rules specify different pay slabs, with the first retention slot offering ₹18 crore, the second ₹14 crore, and subsequent slabs decreasing accordingly. Given the importance of both players, CSK may choose to assign Gaikwad and Jadeja the same retention value, possibly ₹18 crore each. Gaikwad, the team’s newly appointed captain, has emerged as a key figure, while Jadeja, who has been part of the franchise since 2012, has proven to be a valuable asset. In the previous mega auction, Jadeja was CSK’s highest-paid retention. Balancing the salaries of these two stalwarts will be crucial as CSK prepares its final retention list.
Final Decision and Potential Retentions
The CSK management will meet with Gaikwad and Jadeja before making any official announcements. If CSK decides to retain four players, the team will be required to allocate two slots at ₹18 crore each, potentially paving the way for both Gaikwad and Jadeja to receive equal pay.
Additionally, the team must decide whether to retain other key players such as Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana and Indian all-rounder Shivam Dube. The retention strategy is further complicated by the inclusion of the Right to Match (RTM) option, which allows franchises to bring players back into the auction. However, if CSK utilizes all six retention slots, they will forgo the RTM advantage in the auction.
In the coming weeks, CSK’s decisions on how to distribute their retention funds will significantly shape their squad for the next season.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
