The IPL 2025 mega auction concluded in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24-25, 2024, with franchises collectively spending Rs 639.15 crore to acquire 182 players, including 62 overseas players. A key highlight of the auction was the use of Right-to-Match (RTM) cards, which allowed franchises to retain specific players after competing bids from other teams.
A total of eight RTM cards were used during the auction, with Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Delhi Capitals (DC) leading the way, utilizing two RTM cards each. Here’s the complete list of players retained via RTM cards:
Players retained using RTM cards:
| Player | Team | Base Price | RTM Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mukesh Kumar | Delhi Capitals | Rs 2 crore | Rs 8 crore |
| R Sai Kishore | Punjab Kings | Rs 75 lakh | Rs 2 crore |
| Shamar Joseph | Lucknow Super Giants | Rs 75 lakh | Rs 2 crore |
| Jake Fraser-McGurk | Delhi Capitals | Rs 2 crore | Rs 9 crore |
| Arshdeep Singh | Punjab Kings | Rs 2 crore | Rs 18 crore |
| Rachin Ravindra | Chennai Super Kings | Rs 1.5 crore | Rs 4 crore |
| Naman Dhir | Mumbai Indians | Rs 30 lakh | Rs 5.25 crore |
| Swapnil Singh | Royal Challengers Bangalore | Rs 30 lakh | Rs 50 lakh |
Highlights:
- Punjab Kings retained Arshdeep Singh for Rs 18 crore, the most expensive retention via RTM card, showcasing their commitment to securing key players.
- Delhi Capitals used RTM cards on Mukesh Kumar and Jake Fraser-McGurk, with the latter being retained for Rs 9 crore.
- Naman Dhir was retained by Mumbai Indians for Rs 5.25 crore, making him one of the notable RTM card acquisitions.
The use of RTM cards demonstrates franchises’ strategic intent to retain trusted performers, ensuring a balance of experience and skill in their squads for IPL 2025.