Image Source: MOORTHY RV
[Saba Sports News] The speculation surrounding Hardik Pandya’s transfer from Gujarat Titans to Mumbai Indians sparked rumors about the BCCI possibly abolishing the IPL mega auction. Contrary to these rumors, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed the continuation of the mega auction before the 2025 IPL season.
He highlighted the auction’s importance, particularly its role in enabling players, especially emerging talents like U19 cricketers who are less experienced in franchise negotiations, to secure better financial opportunities compared to standard player transfers typical in football.
Dhumal emphasized the significant benefits that auctions have provided, especially for players from cricketing nations like Afghanistan, ensuring that the auction system remains integral to the IPL’s structure. He assured that the upcoming mega auction would maintain its scale and impact, potentially introducing fresh talents from various countries.
“We will have the mega auction for sure, where you get to choose three-four players and then you have a new team. That makes it more interesting and that format will continue. Hopefully, the mega auction will be as big and as good as we have had earlier given newer talents coming in not from India and other countries. Teams like Afghanistan have also benefitted as they could showcase their talent,” Dhumal shared.
Amidst this, the absence of players like Ishan Kishan from the Ranji Trophy and Shreyas Iyer’s withdrawal from a crucial Mumbai quarterfinal match has stirred discussions.
Their prioritization of IPL preparations over domestic duties led to their exclusion from the BCCI’s annual central contracts, drawing criticism from figures like chief selector Ajit Agarkar and BCCI secretary Jay Shah.
Dhumal reiterated the paramount importance of representing the country, asserting that true accolades and respect for cricketers stem from their performances for the national team, regardless of the allure and financial rewards of league cricket.