Teams are facing difficult choices, weighing loyalty to their existing squads against the need for new talent. The league's revised retention policies and financial updates, including a higher salary cap and adjusted eligibility rules, are set to impact team strategies significantly. Speculation over unexpected retention decisions has fans eagerly awaiting announcements. IPL 2025: Revised Retention and Financial Policies Teams can retain up to six players, either directly or through the Right to Match (RTM) card, allowing for a maximum of five capped players (Indian and overseas) and two uncapped players. The increased salary cap now provides teams with an INR 120 crore auction purse. Additional performance pay and match fees have risen to INR 146 crore for 2025, projected to reach INR 157 crore by 2027. Each player will also receive INR 7.5 lakh per game, a first-time inclusion in the league. New Eligibility Rules Spark Discussion The updated eligibility guidelines have added intrigue to this retention phase. A capped Indian player can now be reclassified as uncapped if they have not represented India or held a BCCI contract in the past five years. Foreign players must register for the auction, facing a two-season suspension if they withdraw after selection. As IPL teams finalize their retention lists, fans should anticipate strategic moves that will shape the league's 2025 season and beyond.