The World Opinion

Tag: IPL 2025

  • ‘Isn’t That Impressive’: Sanjay Manjrekar Evaluates Virat Kohli’s IPL Captaincy For RCB | cricket news

    Cricketer turned commentator Sanjay Manjrekar claimed that Virat Kohli’s reputation races him ahead to captain the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL 2025. As per Manjrekar, a captain should be appointed on the basis of performance rather than reputation alone.

    Virat Kohli was castigated even though he won the orange cap and helped his team secure a fourth-place finish in IPL 2024. The reason behind the criticism was Kohli’s below-average strike rate as he also made the joint-slowest century in IPL history off. 67 deliveries.

    “If instead of Virat Kohli, there was someone else. You just remove him from your mind and just look at his performance in the IPL, his batting and captaincy performance. Then you think whether it is the right decision to make him the captain,” Manjrekar said while speaking on ESPNCricinfo.

    “Just because he is Virat Kohli, 95% of fans want him to be the captain. But if you just go by his performances, it isn’t that impressive. This is my problem, I do not want to get carried away, because of hero worship, I do not want to get away from the cricket truth,” Manjrekar added.

    The Bangalore-based franchise retained Virat Kohli for a whopping Rs 21 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction.

    “In Tests, Virat Kohli is out of form, but India needs him. But in T20s, I don’t think he is as great a player as he was 7-8 years ago,” Manjrekar said.

    As of now, Virat Kohli has taken part in 252 IPL games where he smashed 8,004 runs with the help of eight centuries. In the previous edition of the IPL, Kohli collected 741 runs in 15 games with an average of 61.75. In the IPL 2023, the former RCB skipper made 639 runs in 14 matches at an average of 53.25.

  • ‘Grateful To The Franchise’: Shashank Singh After Being Retained By PBKS For IPL 2025 | cricket news

    Explosive batter Shashank Singh is eager to repay the faith the Punjab Kings have shown in him by retaining him for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). Following a standout performance in IPL 2024, Punjab Kings chose to retain Shashank ahead of the upcoming mega auction. He is one of only two players staying with the franchise, alongside wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh.

    Shashank’s retention is a nod to his impressive season, where he amassed 354 runs in 14 matches at a strike rate of 164.65 and an average of 44.25, solidifying his status as one of IPL’s most reliable finishers in 2024. “I am extremely grateful to the Having been part of the circuit for the last five years, this opportunity means a lot, and I’ll be forever thankful. ” Shashank stated in a press release by PBKS.

    Looking ahead to IPL 2025, Shashank is particularly excited to work with the team’s new head coach, Ricky Ponting. “Working with Ricky Ponting sir will be incredible. He’s a legend, and I’m keen to learn under his guidance,” said Shashank, who grew up admiring Ponting’s iconic pull shots. The former Australian captain will assume his role from the 2025 IPL season. Ponting revealed that he was approached by several teams but saw the coaching instability as a challenge worth taking on.

    Ponting will be Punjab Kings’ third head coach in four seasons, following a ninth-place finish in the 2024 IPL season. The team has not reached the playoffs since 2014, when they finished as runners-up. After his retention, Shashank’s determination to contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming season has only intensified.

    “As a professional, you must give 100 per cent. The trust Punjab Kings and the fans have shown in me makes it my duty to double my efforts and aim for the championship,” he emphasised.

  • IPL 2025 DC Retained Players Full List: Delhi Capitals Reveal Full List Of Retained Players Ahead Of IPL 2025 Auction | cricket news

    IPL Retention 2025: The likes of Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Abhishek Porel, and Tristan Stubbs have been retained by Delhi Capitals ahead of the Indian Premier League (2025) mega auction. Notably, Delhi has not retained Rishabh Pant and as a result, the star batter will dive into the mega auction after playing for the Capitals for eight seasons. Pant took part in 111 IPL matches so far and scored 3284 runs with the help of 18 fifties and a century.

    IPL Auction 2025: DC (Delhi Capitals) Retention List

    Axar Patel

    Kuldeep Yadav

    Abhishek Porel

    Tristan Stubbs

    Earlier, the Delhi-based franchise appointed former India cricketers Hemang Badani and Venugopal Rao as Head Coach (IPL) and Director of Cricket (IPL) respectively.

    “My association with the franchise has been a long-standing one, and I am thankful for the trust our owners have placed in me by offering me this role. I look forward to this new challenge ahead of a new IPL cycle”, said Rao.

    “It’s my absolute honor to be joining Delhi Capitals, and I’m deeply grateful to our owners for trusting me with the job. With the mega auction around the corner, my job, in collaboration with the rest of our coaching staff, is cut out. I can’t wait to get started”, Badani said.

    Every franchise will start with a purse of ₹120 crore. Retaining multiple capped players can lead to substantial deductions, so strategic management of the purse is crucial for effective team-building. Teams retaining fewer than six players can use Right-To-Match (RTM) cards during the auction to acquire players. The number of RTM options available correlates with the number of players retained.

    Each uncapped player costs ₹4 crore, significantly impacting the team’s auction purse. If a team pays a capped player below their retained value, the deduction will still be based on the highest bracket.

  • IPL 2025 RCB Retained Players Full List: Who Else Will RCB Retain Other Than Virat Kohli? , cricket news

    As the deadline for IPL 2025 retention looms large, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have stirred excitement among fans with an innovative social media puzzle. This cryptic announcement not only hints at their retained players but also encapsulates the underlying tension and anticipation that marks the IPL retention phase. With heavyweights like Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj expected to make the cut, let’s delve into the thrill surrounding RCB’s strategy and what it could mean for their future.

    , ,

    Sneak peek alert! ,

    Our retentions are shrouded in mystery, waiting for you to uncover. Can you decipher the clues and crack the_ pic.twitter.com/lLu5MZ3UI8

    — Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) October 30, 2024 A Teaser in the Form of a Puzzle

    On October 30, 2024, RCB took to their social media platforms, particularly X, to challenge fans with a crossword puzzle. The post read, “The truth is not always what you see. It is actually what you want to see. Sneak peek alert! Our retentions are shrouded in mystery, waiting for you to uncover. Can you decipher the clues and crack the code?” This clever marketing tactic not only engages their loyal fan base but also builds hype around the upcoming IPL auction. Fans quickly began deciphering the jumbled names within the puzzle, identifying six potential retentions: Virat Kohli, Mohammed Siraj, Glenn Maxwell, Rajat Patidar, Faf du Plessis, and Cameron Green. However, the catch lies in the IPL regulations, which limit each franchise to a maximum of five capped players and one uncapped player.

    Here’s a likely price estimate for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) retained players for IPL 2025, based on previous contracts and market trends:

    Likely Retention Prices for RCB Players

    Virat Kohli: ₹16-18 crore

    As a top player and previous captain, Kohli commands a significant salary. His past retention was around ₹17 crore.

    Faf du Plessis: ₹10-12 crore

    Having a strong season and leadership qualities, he is expected to be retained at a premium.

    Glenn Maxwell: ₹11-13 crore

    Maxwell’s all-rounder status and explosive batting make him a valuable asset.

    Mohammed Siraj: ₹8-10 crore

    With his impressive performances, particularly in the recent season, Siraj’s retention price is likely to reflect his importance to the bowling lineup.

    Rajat Patidar: ₹6-8 crore

    As a promising young talent, Patidar’s price will likely be within this range based on his potential and previous contributions.

    Yash Dayal (Uncapped Player): ₹4 crore

    Fixed retention price as per IPL rules for uncapped players.

    Retention Dynamics and Strategic Implications

    While the puzzle hints at possible retentions, the manner in which players’ names were presented raises eyebrows. Notably, Faf du Plessis and Rajat Patidar are listed by first names, whereas others are referred to by surnames. This discrepancy might suggest that RCB is leaning towards retaining only the four players named by their surnames. If the speculations hold true, RCB’s retention list will likely feature Kohli, Siraj, Maxwell, and Green, while Patidar and du Plessis could find themselves on the chopping block. This approach reflects RCB’s strategic shift as they aim to rebuild and enhance their squad depth ahead of IPL 2025, a season where they are determined to clinch the elusive trophy after 17 seasons of disappointment.

    Star Performances from IPL 2024

    Reflecting on the previous season, RCB’s journey was nothing short of dramatic. After a rocky start, losing seven out of eight matches, the team surged into the playoffs with a remarkable six-match winning streak. Kohli emerged as a standout performer, securing the Purple Cap with 741 runs in 15 matches, including a century and five fifties. His consistency and flair were pivotal in rekindling RCB’s hopes.

    Alongside him, Faf du Plessis contributed significantly with 438 runs at an impressive strike rate, while Mohammed Siraj and Yash Dayal spearheaded the bowling attack, each claiming 15 wickets. Their performances were crucial in maintaining RCB’s competitive edge, underscoring the importance of retaining key players who can drive the team forward.

  • IPL 2025 Players Retention Special FREE Live Streaming: Check Deadline, Date, Time And Where, When And How To Watch Live Telecast On TV, Mobile Apps, Online? , cricket news

    The countdown has begun as IPL franchises gear up to finalize their retentions ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. The much-anticipated retention deadline, set for Thursday, October 31, will see teams announce which players will remain part of their core squads for the next cycle. This year, IPL teams can only retain up to six players, either through direct retention or the return of the Right to Match (RTM) card, last used in 2018.

    Key Retention Rules And Price Structure

    Teams can retain a maximum of five capped and two uncapped players, but only six in total. The IPL Governing Council has also set retention price slabs: Rs 18 Crore, Rs 14 Crore, and Rs 11 Crore for three capped players, with further retention options at Rs 18 Crore and Rs 14 Crore for two additional capped players. For uncapped players, each will cost Rs 4 Crore. If a franchise opts for full retention, they’ll head into the auction with Rs 41 Crore remaining from the expanded Rs 120 Crore purse.

    Key Details for IPL Retention Special Show

    Date: Thursday, October 31, 2024 Retention Deadline: 5 PM IST

    When is the IPL 2025 Retention Deadline? The IPL 2025 Retention deadline is scheduled for Thursday, October 31, 2024. On this day, all ten franchises will reveal their lists of retained and released players ahead of the much-anticipated IPL Mega Auction, expected to take place in November 2024.

    What Time is the IPL 2025 Retention Deadline? The retention deadline is set for 5 PM IST on Thursday, October 31. By this time, all teams must submit their finalized lists of retained and released players to the BCCI and IPL Governing Council.

    How to Watch the IPL 2025 Retention Show Online and on TV? The IPL Retention Special Show will begin streaming at 4:30 PM IST on October 31, available for free on JioCinema. For television viewers, the program will also air on the Star Sports Network.

    Flexible Spending for Star Players

    Franchises have some flexibility within the Rs 75 Crore allocation for capped retentions. Teams could choose to retain a high-value player for more than the set Rs 18 Crore if they stay within the limit, though this would reduce their remaining auction purse. This flexibility allows teams to make adjustments and retain their biggest stars if they choose.

  • IPL 2025: MS Dhoni Ready To Play? CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan Gives Huge Update | cricket news

    MS Dhoni has put to rest any doubts about his participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, bringing relief to the Chennai Super Kings. The team wasted no time in confirming that their iconic captain will indeed be playing in the next season.

    “When he is ready, what else (do) we want. We are happy,” franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan told Cricbuzz on Saturday. Viswanathan’s statement follows Dhoni’s recent remarks, where he expressed his eagerness to enjoy the remaining years of his cricketing career.

    “I just want to enjoy whatever last few years of cricket I am able to play,” Dhoni was quoted as saying to TOI. “When you play cricket like a professional sport, it becomes difficult to enjoy it just like a game. That’s what I want to do. It’s not easy. (‘I Want To Enjoy The Game’: MS Dhoni’s Big Reveal On His IPL 2025 Participation For CSK)

    “The emotions keep coming, the commitments are there. I want to enjoy the game for the next few years. I have to keep myself fit for nine months, so that I can play two and a half months of IPL. You need to plan it out, but at the same time chill a bit.”

    While Dhoni’s announcement was largely anticipated, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) officials had been waiting for a final confirmation from him, which they expected by October 28. Now that Dhoni’s intentions are clear, the franchise is set to finalize its player retention decisions. Viswanathan confirmed that Dhoni will soon speak with N Srinivasan, the franchise owner, to finalize the retained players list.

    Dhoni, who will be in the uncapped category, will impact the auction price by just INR 4 crore. Ravindra Jadeja is expected to be the top retention, followed by Ruturaj Gaikwad. Matheesha Pathirana, a key CSK player, is believed to have agreed to be the third retention, with his manager sealing the deal in Chennai last week. Among Shivam Dube, Devon Conway, and uncapped player Sameer Rizvi, two are likely to be retained.

    The final decisions will be confirmed after Dhoni’s upcoming discussion with Srinivasan, with Dhoni expected to return to Ranchi from Goa in the next few days.

  • ‘Can’t Believe How Young He Looks’: MS Dhoni’s New Hairstyle Impresses Netizens – Check Out How Fans Reacted | cricket news

    In a surprising turn of events, cricketing legend MS Dhoni has unveiled a fresh new look that has left netizens buzzing with excitement. Known not just for his cricketing prowess but also for his iconic hairstyles, Dhoni has made headlines once again by opting for a shorter, more streamlined hairstyle, bidding farewell to his long locks that have been a part of his signature style for years.

    Check MS Dhoni’ New Look

    MS Dhoni’s new look. [Aalim Hakim] pic.twitter.com/nPbCIepRQ5

    —Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) October 12, 2024

    This transformation marks a significant departure from the flowing mane that fans have grown accustomed to over the years. Dhoni’s decision to change his hairstyle has not only caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts but has also sparked conversations across various social media platforms.

    MS Dhoni’s New Hairstyle Leaves Netizens Impressed

    Aging in reverse — vijay (@vijayfredie) October 12, 2024


    A new look a start of new era — (@SHEHRYAR7434) October 12, 2024


    Fire — Hamid Malik (@MalikHamid686) October 12, 2024

    MSD is timeless Can’t believe how young he looks — Saadi (@its_Saadi56) October 12, 2024

    Fans quickly took to Twitter and Instagram, expressing their admiration for Dhoni’s new look. Comments flooded in, with many praising the cricketing icon for his bold choice and stating that he continues to set trends both on and off the field. “MS Dhoni can pull off any look! Love the new hairstyle!” one fan tweeted, while another commented, “Dhoni’s new style is giving us all the vibes! A true trendsetter!”

    The change in hairstyle comes at a time when Dhoni is gearing up for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he might be part of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) once again. He left CSK’s captaincy last year and handed it over to Ruturaj Gaikwad. This new look adds a fresh flair as he prepares to embark on another season with the team. Fans and critics alike are eager to see how this new look will influence his presence both on and off the field.

    As the countdown to the IPL begins, fans will undoubtedly be watching closely not just for his batting but also to see how this stylish change plays out in the coming matches. With MS Dhoni, it seems there’s always something new to look forward to.

  • Will Mumbai Indians Retain Rohit Sharma? Harbhajan Singh Comes Up With Blunt Remark Ahead Of IPL Mega Auction | cricket news

    Mumbai Indians and Rohit Sharma have always worked in tandem when it comes to the IPL. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, Mumbai Indians have lifted the IPL trophy for five times. Ahead of the upcoming mega auction, Rohit’s future with Mumbai Indians looks uncertain.

    Former India player Harbhajan Singh who spent time with Rohit Sharma in Mumbai Indians’ reckons that if the Hitman steps into the IPL auction, he will attract a massive bidding war.

    “It will be interesting to see whether he will be retained or not. If he goes into the auction pool, it will be fascinating to see which team bids for him. I’m sure many teams must be thinking along those lines,” Harbhajan told TOI.

    “Rohit Sharma, as a leader and a player, is amazing. He’s a top-quality player, top-quality captain and leader. He is a proven match-winner. Even at 37, he still has a lot of cricket left in him. If Rohit enters the auction, he will fetch big bucks. It will be exciting to see the auction unfold,” the former spinner added.

    Former cricketer and current commentator Aakash Chopra also said that Rohit Sharma’s journey with Mumbai Indians might be coming to an end.

    “Will he stay or will he go? It’s a big question. Personally, I feel he will not stay. Whoever is retained will be with the thinking that he will remain with you for three years unless your name is MS Dhoni,” said Aakash Chopra.

    “MS Dhoni and Chennai Super Kings’ story is very different but Rohit Sharma at MI, I feel he might himself leave or MI might leave him. Anything can happen but I don’t think Rohit is going to be retained here. I don’t have any information but I feel Rohit will probably be released,” he added.

  • IPL 2025: Retention Deadline Announced, Franchises Must Submit Player List By This Date | cricket news

    IPL 2025: The Indian Premier League (IPL) has officially announced the retention rules for the 2025 season, with franchises required to submit their final list of retained players by October 31st, 5 PM IST. This crucial deadline sets the stage for the 2025 auction, where teams will finalize their squads, balancing player retention and auction strategies.

    Retention Rules And Purse Deductions

    For IPL 2025, franchises can retain up to five capped players, with specific amounts being deducted from their auction purse depending on the number of players retained. The retention slabs are as follows:

    For the first three retentions: INR 18 crore, INR 14 crore, and INR 11 crore. For the next two retentions: INR 18 crore and INR 14 crore.

    In case a franchise retains five capped players and one uncapped player before the auction, a total of INR 79 crore will be deducted from the team’s purse of INR 120 crore. This leaves the franchise with INR 41 crore to spend at the auction. For franchises opting to retain four capped players and two uncapped players, INR 69 crore will be deducted from their purse.

    Notably, the salary cap for uncapped players remains unchanged from the 2021 mega auction, with franchises deducting INR 4 crore for each uncapped player retained.

    Impact Player Rule To Stay Until 2027

    Despite some opposition from certain franchises and top players, including India captain Rohit Sharma, the IPL has decided to keep the controversial Impact Player rule in place for at least three more seasons, extending its tenure until 2027.

    The Impact Player rule, introduced in 2023, has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that it disrupts the development of allrounders an essential element in Indian cricket. However, during a key meeting held on July 31st, attended by team owners and key officials, the majority of the franchises supported the continuation of the rule, citing its potential to add tactical depth to the game.

    While critics, including high-profile players, voiced concerns about the rule limiting opportunities for allrounders to hone their skills, the IPL management has maintained that it serves the league’s goals of innovation and excitement. The decision to retain the rule reflects the desire to keep experimenting with new dynamics that could add value to both the sport and viewership.

    IPL 2025: Retention Details

    With the retention deadline looming, franchises will have tough decisions to make regarding player retention and auction strategies. Teams will need to assess their squad balance carefully, weighing the pros and cons of holding on to core players versus building from scratch in the auction.

    Additionally, the continuation of the Impact Player rule adds another layer of complexity to team composition, particularly for those franchises looking to build teams around multi-dimensional players.

    As October 31st approaches, all eyes will be on the retained players’ lists as teams reveal their plans for IPL 2025, setting the stage for an exciting auction and an even more thrilling season ahead.

  • ‘To All CSK Fans…’: Dwayne Bravo’s Special Message As He Joins KKR As Mentor Ahead Of IPL 2025 | cricket news

    The former West Indies all-rounder thanked the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) management for the love and support during his tenure as franchise’s bowling coach as he joined Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Kolkata Knight Riders announced former West Indies all-rounder Bravo as the franchise’s new mentor, succeeding Gautam Gambhir, ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025.

    A day prior to the announcement, Bravo, who is going to turn 41 next month, retired from all forms of cricket after sustaining a groin injury in the Caribbean Premier League. Bravo retired from international cricket in 2021 and decided to end his time in the Indian Premier League last year. In the past year, Bravo shifted his focus to coaching roles, featuring for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Afghanistan. (IPL 2025: BCCI To Allow 5 Retentions Ahead Of Mega Auction – Report)

    Speaking in a video by CSK’s official to take this time to give a special mention and a special thank you to the CSK management team for giving me their blessings to move on to do something that I am really passionate about,” Bravo said.

    “My fans in Chennai and to all the CSK fans around the world, I call on you to give me your blessings and support as you always do. I know this is a sad moment for you guys, but it is one that I encourage you. to continue to support me in everything that I do, all the time. See you on the other side.

    Bravo’s stint with KKR will be his second coaching role in the cash-rich league. He joined the Chennai Super Kings in 2011, retired from the franchise in 2022, and in 2023 joined the five-time champions as the bowling coach.

    The renowned West Indies all-rounder lifted four IPL titles with CSK in different roles. The decorated Caribbean star is the third-highest wicket-taker in IPL history with 183 scalps and also the first player to win two purple caps in the tournament, in 2013 and 2015.

    Bravo is enthusiastic for the new chapter that is going to unfold in his life and said, “I’ve been part of the Trinbago Knight Riders for the last 10 years in the CPL. Having played for and against the Knight Riders in various leagues, I have a lot of respect for how they operate, the professionalism of the management, and the family-like environment make it a special place. This is the perfect platform for me as I transition from playing to mentoring and coaching. the next generation of players.”

    Over his illustrious career, he has played 582 T20 matches, taken 631 wickets, and scored nearly 7,000 runs. With more championship wins than any other cricketer.