The Mega Auction of IPL 2025 will be one of the biggest auctions in recent times, and it will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24-25. As one of the most eagerly awaited IPL seasons, Mega Auction marks a very rare chance for franchises to change their rosters with a combination of experienced stars and emerging talent from all around the globe. It will be an auction conducted by the BCCI and for this season, each team is allocated a budget of INR 120 crore, a hike from the previous INR 100 crore. The adjustment facilitates more flexibility to franchises in competing for the best available players through this auction.
This year, the team retention policy of structuring emphasizes the auctioning process where every franchise can retain up to six players using a mix of direct retentions and Right-to-Match (RTM) cards. Teams have to be careful in balancing their retainers with the budget, as retaining some capped internationals can run into the deep pockets of clubs quickly. For example, an amount as high as INR 18 crore is applied towards retention of a capped player, whereas uncapped players are easier on the pocket, costing about INR 4 crore each. Consequently, teams need to decide carefully who to retain and which roles they must prioritize to build competitive squads.
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Teams have different auction purse sizes on the basis of their previous retention choices. Punjab Kings, retaining only two uncapped players, leads the league with a huge purse of INR 110.5 crore. Teams like Rajasthan Royals who retained most capped players, enter the auction with a smaller purse of INR 41 crores. From now, franchises will strategize on how to get the best available players within their remaining purse.
The price list of players registered in various brackets gives an interesting view. High-value signings are led by Jos Buttler, Rishabh Pant, and Kagiso Rabada, who occupy the highest base price bracket at INR 2 crore. This segment consists of superstars as well as experienced Indian cricketers, who would be extensively sought after by the franchises. The rise in the minimum base price of the auction to INR 30 lakh also means that even the emerging and uncapped players could see higher bids.
It is a strategic battle for franchises to assemble the strongest lineup as fans eagerly await IPL 2025 Mega Auction. With top players in the mix and varied budget allocations across teams, the event can only be expected to set the stage for a dynamic season ahead.