Ravichandran Ashwin Calls RTM Rule Unfair Ahead of IPL 2025 Mega Auction

Renowned Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has raised concerns over the Right to Match (RTM) rule in the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auctions. Ahead of the much-anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction, Ashwin shared his views on why the RTM rule is detrimental to players, sparking a debate within the cricketing community.

The Return of RTM: A Controversial Move

The Right to Match (RTM) card, a contentious topic in IPL auctions, is reportedly set to make a comeback in the IPL 2025 mega auction. This rule allows franchises to retain a player by matching the highest bid made by another franchise during the auction. While many franchises are in favor of this rule, believing it helps them maintain team continuity, Ashwin argues that it is inherently unfair to players.

In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Ashwin detailed his opposition to the RTM rule. He explained that the system could significantly undervalue players, preventing them from reaching their true market potential during the auction.

Ashwin’s Argument: A Case of Unfair Valuation

Ashwin illustrated his point by presenting a hypothetical scenario. He described a situation where a player, referred to as “X”, currently valued at around INR 5-6 crores, enters the auction with a base price of INR 2 crores. According to Ashwin, the player’s current team, say the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), could intentionally refrain from bidding aggressively, only to later use the RTM card to retain the player at a lower price.

“There is nothing more unfair for a player than RTM. The problem with RTM is that it is not fair value for the player,” Ashwin stated. He emphasized that the RTM rule allows teams to manipulate the bidding process, ultimately depriving players of the chance to earn their true market value.

Impact on Auction Dynamics

Ashwin further explained how this rule could also affect other franchises involved in the bidding war. He noted that teams like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) or Mumbai Indians (MI) might engage in a competitive bidding process, driving the price up to INR 6 crores. However, if SRH then uses the RTM card to retain the player, it not only disappoints the other bidding teams but also results in the player not receiving a fair value for his skills.

“The KKR and Mumbai Indians are fighting. For a team, it has gone up to six crores. What does SRH say? You bought the player, right? Return the player,” Ashwin said, citing the unfairness of the situation.

Future of RTM in IPL 2025

Reports indicate that several IPL teams have expressed a desire to retain their core players using the RTM rule in the upcoming mega auction. This has led to speculation that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might allow multiple RTMs per team. However, the final decision from the BCCI is still awaited.

As the cricketing world gears up for IPL 2025, Ashwin’s strong stance on the RTM rule has added a new dimension to the ongoing discussions about the auction process. Whether the BCCI will reconsider the rule in light of these concerns remains to be seen.

The return of RTM could significantly impact the auction dynamics and the financial prospects of many players, making it a topic of intense debate as the IPL 2025 auction approaches.

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