In a significant move for the future of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the IPL Governing Council convened September 28, 2024 in Bengaluru to unveil the TATA IPL Player Regulations for the 2025-2027 seasons. This decision follows constructive discussions held with the owners of the 10 franchises at the BCCI Headquarters in July, laying the groundwork for a dynamic and competitive league.
Among the key highlights of the newly announced regulations is the provision for franchises to retain a total of six players from their existing squads. Teams can exercise this retention either through direct retention or by utilizing the Right to Match (RTM) option. The choice of player combinations for retention or RTM lies entirely within the discretion of the respective franchises.
The regulations specify that of the six retained players, teams can include a maximum of five capped players, which may consist of both Indian and overseas talents, alongside a maximum of two uncapped players. This flexibility allows franchises to maintain a balanced mix of experience and potential within their squads.
In a move aimed at enhancing player compensation, the auction purse for IPL 2025 has been set at INR 120 Crore. This increase marks a notable expansion from the previous year’s total salary cap of INR 110 Crore, which will now escalate to INR 146 Crore for 2025, INR 151 Crore for 2026, and INR 157 Crore for 2027. The new salary cap will comprise not only the auction purse but also incremental performance pay and match fees.
For the first time in IPL history, a match fee has been introduced, allowing each playing member—including the Impact Player—to receive INR 7.5 Lakhs per match. This additional remuneration will be separate from the players’ contracted amounts, providing a significant financial incentive for on-field performances.
The regulations also introduce new eligibility criteria for overseas players. Any overseas player wishing to participate in the IPL must now register for the Big Auction. Failure to register will render the player ineligible for the following year’s player auction, emphasizing the importance of commitment and participation in the league.
Furthermore, strict penalties are now in place for players who register for the auction but subsequently make themselves unavailable before the start of the season. Such players will face a ban from participating in the tournament and the player auction for two seasons, reinforcing the need for accountability among participants.
In a noteworthy stipulation for Indian players, a capped player can be classified as uncapped if they have not played in the starting XI of any International Cricket matches (Test, ODI, or T20I) or lack a Central Contract with the BCCI over the preceding five calendar years. This regulation aims to ensure that only active and contributing players retain their capped status.
The Impact Player Regulation, which was introduced recently, will continue to be a part of the league’s framework for the 2025-2027 cycle. This regulation has added a new strategic dimension to the matches, allowing teams to make real-time tactical adjustments.
The announcement of these regulations signals the IPL Governing Council’s commitment to evolving the league and enhancing its competitive spirit while ensuring player welfare and financial sustainability.
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This newly established framework promises an exciting future for the IPL, fostering competitive balance and providing players with increased financial rewards, thereby enhancing the overall quality and spectacle of the tournament.