IPL 2024 Retention Overview: Big Surprises, Tough Calls, and New Strategies

The 2024 IPL retention window brought several unexpected moves, with notable releases and strategic retentions. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) surprised everyone by releasing key players, including Shreyas Iyer, Mitchell Starc, and Venkatesh Iyer. Additionally, Delhi Capitals (DC) saw the departure of Rishabh Pant after intense but ultimately inconclusive negotiations with team owners GMR and JSW. However, with DC holding Right To Match (RTM) options, there remains a slim chance of Pant returning to the franchise if the auction dynamics align.

Delhi's situation is uncertain, as they may prioritize acquiring Shreyas Iyer, potentially limiting funds for Pant. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), known for their appeal among players, have shown interest in Pant, though their budget of INR 55 crore may not be enough against teams with higher budgets like Punjab Kings (INR 110.5 crore) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (INR 83 crore), who are expected to bid aggressively.

KKR’s retention strategy was notable not only for releasing Shreyas Iyer but also for the INR 12 crore surplus created through their six retained players. This surplus, however, won’t impact their auction purse, which is set at INR 51 crore. KKR’s CEO Venky Mysore highlighted the challenges in retention, pointing out the need for mutual agreement in such decisions. Notably, KKR's suggestion to the BCCI to allow only RTMs (and not retentions) was a strategic move; KKR now heads into the auction without any RTM options after six retentions.

In a surprising call, Mumbai Indians (MI) retained Tilak Varma over Ishan Kishan, citing Varma’s strong performance in a middle-order role. Kishan’s contract, valued at INR 15.25 crore, created a stark contrast with Varma’s INR 1.7 crore acquisition, though their recent performances have been comparable. MI chose to retain flexibility by forgoing a sixth retention, a move that aligns with their auction strategy.

The 2024 auction will feature several high-profile names released across franchises, including Jos Buttler, KL Rahul, David Warner, Mohammed Shami, and Glenn Maxwell. The BCCI’s approach ensures a star-studded auction, with INR 641.5 crore available for bidding and several top players up for grabs.

Remaining Purse for IPL Auction (in INR):

With INR 558.5 crore spent on retentions, the auction promises to be an exciting event, driven by team strategies, new talent, and big-name transfers.