The bidding process for two new IPL teams concluded a few days ago, as RPSG Group acquired Lucknow City, whereas, CVC Capital Partners emerged as the highest bidder for Ahmedabad. Hence, from 2022, IPL will be 10-team affair with as many as 74 matches being played over the course of two months.
The mega auction will be held prior to the upcoming season, as teams will be looking to build a strong side for the next three-four seasons. As reported by ESPN Cricinfo, the existing eight franchises will be able to retain up to four players (3 Indians, 1 overseas or 2 Indians, 2 overseas). The report also suggests that the two new franchises will be handed the opportunity to pick three players from Mega Auction pool in advance
Two new IPL teams to pick three players prior to the Mega Auction
Several players will be go under the hammer in the upcoming IPL Auction, given the addition of two new teams. To make it a level playing field, two new additions to the cash-rich league, Lucknow and Ahmedabad will be given three picks each from the rest of the player pool prior to the auction.
The three initial picks for the two news teams will be in the form of 2 Indian players and one overseas player. It will be interesting to see the franchise’s decision over whom they decide to retain for the next season. Moreover, there will be no Right to Match cards (RTM) up for grabs in the mega auction.
No Right to Match Cards for franchises in the Mega IPL Auction
Since the RTM cards will be no longer be an option for the eight franchises, they will have to look for newer combinations to get their team balance right. Several IPL Franchises will be on the lookout for someone who could lead their side. Virat Kohli stepped down as Royal Challengers Bangalore captain this year, which means they could be spending big bucks on a proven leader.
David Warner is expected to be released by Sunrisers Hyderabad after a dismal season with the bat. The Australian batsman will be one of the hottest properties in the Mega Auction, given his leadership abilities
