IPL Retention Debate: Raina and Rayudu Advocate for Increased Player Retention
Ahead of the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction, former IPL stalwarts Suresh Raina and Ambati Rayudu have called for a significant increase in player retention. They argue that maintaining a stable core is essential for teams’ success in the highly competitive tournament.
During the last mega auction in 2022, IPL teams were permitted to retain up to four players. However, as the three-year cycle draws to a close, there is a growing consensus that this number is insufficient. Some teams are advocating for the retention of up to eight players, while others believe four or five would be more appropriate.
“Personally, I feel retentions have to be a lot more because a franchise invests a lot on players,” said Rayudu. “The core of the team is what makes every team unique in the IPL. The longer the core remains, the culture of the team remains, and there is a greater chance of success.”
Raina, Rayudu’s former Chennai Super Kings teammate, echoed these sentiments. “I 100 percent agree with Rayudu,” he said. “The mega auction should be every three years. The IPL Governing Council will do what is best for the game.”
The issue of player retention has become a hot topic of discussion as franchises prepare for the next mega auction in December. Teams are eager to secure the services of their key players and build a strong foundation for the upcoming seasons.
The IPL Governing Council is yet to make a decision on the number of players that can be retained. However, the views of Raina and Rayudu, two of the most experienced and successful players in IPL history, are likely to carry significant weight in the decision-making process.
