In the high-stakes arena of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise meetings, emotions ran high as Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and Ness Wadia, co-owner of Punjab Kings (PBKS), engaged in a heated argument. The topic of contention? The crucial rules surrounding player retention and the number of Right to Match (RTM) cards allowed for the upcoming mega auction ahead of IPL 2025.
The BCCI convened a meeting with all IPL franchise owners to discuss the impending mega auction. However, unanimity proved elusive. Teams like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad advocated for allowing around 8 players to be retained. In contrast, franchises like Punjab Kings preferred fewer retentions, hoping to maximize the talent pool available in the auction.
Shah Rukh Khan and Ness Wadia’s argument
Shah Rukh Khan, representing KKR, and Ness Wadia, co-owner of PBKS, found themselves at loggerheads during the meeting. Their disagreement escalated into a heated exchange, reflecting the stakes involved in shaping their teams for the next IPL cycle.
Parth Jindal, co-owner of Delhi Capitals (DC), shed light on the proceedings. He revealed that the BCCI had heard input from all franchise owners. The board is expected to announce the final rules by the end of August, clarifying the retention policy and other critical aspects.
Jindal admitted that consensus remained elusive. Each owner had different plans for retention—some favoured retaining 8-10 players, while others leaned toward a more conservative approach.
Shah Rukh Khan had a heated conversation with Punjab Kings' Ness Wadia.Ness was against too many retentions! (Cricbuzz).
– The Majority of IPL teams wish to have "Small auction" ahead of the 2025 season. [K Shriniwas Rao/News18] pic.twitter.com/7ehe2NFNUK— Knight Club : KKR (@KnightClub_KKR) July 31, 2024
The debate extended to whether there should even be a mega auction at all. Jindal, however, emphasized the auction’s role in maintaining a competitive and level playing field.
Franchises that performed well in the previous season were cautious not to upset the balance of their squads. While they had invested in nurturing young talents, the prospect of only three retentions meant some players might face the auction hammer.
Also Read: Manu Bhaker reach yet another final in 25m pistol, on the verge of creating a ground-breaking feat
%20franchise%20meetings,%20emotions%20ran%20high%20as%20Bollywood%20superstar%C2%A0Shah%20Rukh%20Khan%C2%A0and%C2%A0Ness%20Wadia,%20co-owner%20of%20Punjab%20Kings%20(PBKS),%20engaged%20in%20a%20heated%20argument){kind=link}