The IPL Mega auction is set to take place before the 2025 IPL season, marking a fresh start for all franchises as players return to the auction pool. The last mega auction occurred in 2022, completing a three-season cycle.
One of the intriguing features of the mega auction is the right-to-match card, also known as the RTM card. This card gives franchises the advantage to retain a player they couldn’t keep through salary slab deductions.
BET NOW: Get exclusive sign-up offers and bonuses for betting on sporting events
How does the RTM Card work?
When a player is sold to a new franchise during an auction, the player’s former team can use the RTM card to match the bid amount and bring the player back.
The RTM card was utilized in the 2014 and 2018 IPL mega auctions. However, it was absent in the 2022 auction due to the addition of two new teams, Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
READ MORE: Jayasuriya urges SL to capitalize on Rohit and Virat’s absence in the upcoming T20I
Franchises are now advocating for an increase in retention and RTM options for the 2025 IPL mega auction. They are proposing to allow teams to retain between four to six players and increase the RTM options to eight.
Some franchises suggest retaining one key player based on salary slab deductions and using RTM options for the rest, ensuring a fair valuation of players in the market.
Another suggestion is to hold the mega auction every five years instead of the current three-season cycle.
READ MORE: PBKS to part ways with Trevor Bayliss – Who will be the new head coach?