With the much-anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction just around the corner, fans are eager to know how much their favorite teams have left to spend and what strategies they might adopt. Scheduled for 24-25 November 2024 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, this two-day event will feature 574 players vying for 204 slots, with 70 spots reserved for overseas players.
Let’s take a closer look at the remaining purse of all 10 teams, their retention strategies, and the resources they’re bringing to the table for this auction.
Biggest Purse: Punjab Kings Leads the Pack
The Punjab Kings (PBKS) enter the auction with the largest remaining purse of Rs 110.5 crore. Retaining just two players, PBKS has spent a modest Rs 9.5 crore, giving them a significant advantage. Their strategy seems to focus on building a fresh squad, as they also hold four Right to Match (RTM) cards for capped players.
Teams with Strategic Balances
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)
RCB has chosen to retain only three players, spending Rs 37 crore, leaving them with a healthy purse of Rs 83 crore. With three RTM cards, RCB can target both capped and uncapped players to bolster their lineup.
Delhi Capitals (DC)
DC retained four players, spending Rs 43.75 crore, and are left with Rs 76.25 crore. The team holds two RTM cards, offering flexibility to secure both capped and uncapped players.
Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)
LSG retained five players, spending Rs 51 crore, leaving them with Rs 69 crore. With an RTM card for a capped player, Lucknow seems well-positioned for a balanced auction.
Gujarat Titans (GT)
Gujarat Titans matched LSG by retaining five players and spending Rs 51 crore, keeping their balance at Rs 69 crore. They hold an RTM card for one capped player.
Mid-Range Purses: CSK, MI, and KKR
Chennai Super Kings (CSK)
CSK has spent Rs 65 crore to retain five players, leaving them with Rs 55 crore. They hold an RTM card for an uncapped player and are expected to target experienced players for their squad.
Mumbai Indians (MI)
Mumbai retained five players, spending Rs 75 crore, and have a remaining purse of Rs 45 crore. MI also holds an RTM card for an uncapped player.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)
KKR retained six players, spending Rs 69 crore, leaving them with Rs 51 crore for the auction.
Smaller Purses: SRH and RR
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)
SRH retained five players, spending Rs 75 crore, and have Rs 45 crore left. With an RTM card for an uncapped player, SRH will need to spend wisely.
Rajasthan Royals (RR)
RR spent Rs 79 crore to retain six players, leaving them with the smallest purse of Rs 41 crore.
Key Auction Highlights
- 574 Players Up for Auction:
- 366 Indian players
- 208 foreign players, including those from three associate nations.
- 318 uncapped Indian players and 12 uncapped foreign players add to the excitement.
- Highest Base Price:
- 81 players are in the Rs 2 crore category, making them the most expensive options.
- Date and Time:
- The auction begins on 24 November 2024 at 12:30 PM IST.
What to Expect from the Auction
This year’s mega auction promises fierce competition as teams aim to fill their squads with the right mix of talent and experience. With increased purses and strategic retentions, each team has its own game plan. While some, like PBKS, focus on rebuilding, others, like CSK and MI, look to strengthen their cores.
Keep an eye on how teams utilize their RTM cards, especially RCB and PBKS, who have multiple options to retain key players. The battle to acquire top-tier players from the Rs 2 crore bracket will undoubtedly be intense.
The IPL 2025 mega auction is set to redefine the teams’ rosters and set the stage for another thrilling season.
