With the IPL 2025 season fast approaching, there’s buzz around the new retention rules that might shake up team rosters. If reports are to be believed, franchises will only be allowed to retain five players—three Indian and two overseas. This rule could force teams to make tough decisions, releasing some of their biggest stars. Here’s a look at the top players who could be on the chopping block.
Chennai Super Kings: Tough Choices Ahead
Chennai Super Kings (CSK), known for their strategic retention, might have to make some tough calls. With only five slots available, CSK could prioritize MS Dhoni, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Matheesha Pathirana, and Rachin Ravindra. This would likely mean releasing valuable players like Devon Conway, Shivam Dube, and Deepak Chahar, despite their significant contributions in past seasons.
Mumbai Indians: Potential Big Losses
Mumbai Indians (MI) face an even tougher challenge, given their star-studded lineup. If they stick to retaining Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Tim David, and Gerald Coetzee, they might have to part ways with legends like Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan. This could be a major shakeup for a team that’s built its success around these key players.
Rajasthan Royals: A Shift in Strategy
Rajasthan Royals (RR) might also have to rethink their strategy. The team could opt to retain Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag, Sanju Samson, Jos Buttler, and Trent Boult. If they do, it could mean saying goodbye to experienced bowlers like Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal. This would be a significant change for a team that has relied heavily on its spin attack.
Sunrisers Hyderabad: Captaincy Dilemma
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) could face a captaincy conundrum under the new rules. Retaining Heinrich Klaasen, Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, and Nitish Reddy might leave them with no choice but to release their captain, Pat Cummins, along with Aiden Markram. This would leave SRH needing to find new leadership and a fresh strategy for the upcoming season.
Delhi Capitals: Youth Over Experience
Delhi Capitals (DC) might focus on youth by retaining Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel among their Indian players, while letting go of seasoned opener Prithvi Shaw. In terms of overseas talent, the team could opt for new faces, potentially releasing David Warner and relying on Magark and Stubbs instead.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Foreign Stars at Risk
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) might be forced to release some of their top foreign players. With Sunil Narine and Andre Russell almost certain to be retained, it’s likely that Phil Salt and Mitchell Starc will be released. KKR will need to rely heavily on their core group to perform.
Lucknow Super Giants: Foreign Firepower in Danger
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) might have to let go of some big overseas names. Nicholas Pooran and Quinton de Kock are likely to be retained, which could mean releasing Mark Wood, despite his impact as a fast bowler.
Punjab Kings: Minimal Impact
Punjab Kings (PBKS) might be less affected by the new retention rules. They could choose to retain Shashank Singh, Arshdeep Singh, and Ashutosh among their Indian players, while releasing Sam Curran and possibly even Shikhar Dhawan to focus on building a younger core.
As the retention rules for IPL 2025 come into play, fans can expect some big changes and surprising releases. Teams will have to balance their rosters carefully, making sure they retain their core strengths while adapting to new strategies. The upcoming season promises to be one of the most exciting yet, with new opportunities for emerging talents.
