Anticipation for the 2025 IPL season is rising as teams finalize their player retention lists, blending new talent with established stars. The IPL Governing Council has set October 31 as the deadline for franchises to submit their retained players.
As teams refine their strategies, big names like MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma are expected to remain with their respective teams, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI).
Following the announcement of player regulations for the 2025-27 cycle, the BCCI has allowed each team to retain up to six players through direct retention or the Right to Match (RTM) card.
Teams may retain a maximum of five capped players, including both Indian and international players, along with up to two uncapped players. This framework enables franchises to build a strong core while facilitating competitive player movement in future seasons.
Here’s a detailed look at the likely retention options for each franchise ahead of the upcoming season.
Gujarat Titans
The defending champions intend to keep a core group anchored by young talents:
- Shubman Gill
- Rashid Khan
- Sai Sudarshan
- Shahrukh Khan
- Rahul Tewatia (likely using the Right to Match (RTM) option)
Lucknow Super Giants
In an unexpected turn of events, the Lucknow Super Giants may release their captain, KL Rahul, enabling him to enter the auction pool. The retained stars include:
- Nicholas Pooran
- Mayank Yadav
- Ayush Badoni
- Ravi Bishnoi (RTM)
Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians, the most successful team in IPL history, plan to retain a strong roster:
- Rohit Sharma
- Hardik Pandya
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Tilak Varma
Chennai Super Kings
For CSK, the possibility of MS Dhoni continuing as an uncapped player is an intriguing option. Other likely retentions include:
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Rachin Ravindra (possibly)
- Matheesha Pathirana
Sunrisers Hyderabad
Sunrisers Hyderabad seeks to add an international touch to their roster, considering potential retentions like:
- Pat Cummins
- Heinrich Klaasen
- Abhishek Sharma
- Travis Head
- Abdul Samad
Royal Challengers Bangalore
Royal Challengers Bangalore is expected to retain the veteran Virat Kohli along with:
- Mohammed Siraj
- Yash Dayal (conditional)
Delhi Capitals
Delhi Capitals face a dilemma with Rishabh Pant, who is reportedly interested in entering the auction pool. Meanwhile, other key players could include:
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Axar Patel
Kolkata Knight Riders
KKR’s list of priorities includes:
- Sunil Narine
- Rahmanullah Gurbaz
- Rinku Singh
- Harshit Rana
Discussions with Shreyas Iyer are underway as KKR management evaluates his role in the lineup.
Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings might choose the RTM strategy instead of direct retention, with Arshdeep Singh being a likely standout.
Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals have injury concerns regarding Jos Buttler, which casts doubt on his retention. Other probable retentions include:
- Sanju Samson
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- Riyan Parag
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