With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega-auction fast approaching, the air is buzzing with excitement and speculation on how teams will navigate the latest set of retention rules and salary adjustments. Among the players standing on the cusp of significant changes is none other than Virat Kohli. Kohli, a legendary figure and long-time face of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), is poised to benefit from new rules introduced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
The IPL 2025 mega-auction emphasizes retention, with updated salary caps for players chosen to stay with their franchises. According to the revised guidelines, franchises can now retain players at drastically increased prices: the first-choice retention costs Rs 18 crore, followed by Rs 14 crore for the second, Rs 11 crore for the third, Rs 18 crore for the fourth, and Rs 14 crore for the fifth. This adjustment is significant, and eyes are firmly fixed on how RCB will structure its team leading up to the auction.
Assuredly, Virat Kohli is expected to secure the first-choice retention spot for RCB once more. He has been with the franchise since its inception, offering loyalty and performance since 2008. The updated salary structure means Kohli will see his pay jump to Rs 18 crore for the 2025 season, up from Rs 15 crore prior to the 2022 mega-auction. This Rs 3 crore increase reinforces his pivotal role within RCB.
Kohli's legacy at RCB is prominently unparalleled. He not only captained the side for ten consecutive years but continues to be the heart and soul of the franchise even after stepping down as captain. His standing helps attract fans, sponsors, and interest, positioning him as invaluable. Given his remarkable performances and status, he could realistically reach salary figures exceeding Rs 20 crore if he were to enter the auction pool, highlighting the franchise's determination to retain him.
Looking beyond Kohli, RCB's retention strategy remains under observation and includes various other players whose fates hang on the decisions made before the October 31 deadline. A potential second retention could involve the Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, who joined RCB through trades for Rs 17.50 crore. Should RCB opt to retain him, his salary would adjust to Rs 14 crore under the new structure, still reflecting solid value considering his considerable abilities on the field.
Another focal point for RCB this auction season is their current captain, Faf du Plessis. Since his entrance during the IPL 2022 mega-auction, du Plessis has showcased impressive performance metrics, scoring 1,636 runs over 45 matches and leading RCB to the playoffs two times. Yet, he has faced the frustration of not reaching the IPL finals, which adds extra weight to the decision RCB faces about his future there. If retained, du Plessis would either take home Rs 11 crore or Rs 18 crore, depending on where he slots within the retention tiers.
This upcoming auction presents RCB with not only the chance to hold onto star talent but also to reconfigure other parts of their team strategy. With past seasons marked by narrow misses and passionate fan support, the balance between veteran experience and new prospects could redefine RCB’s identity and ideally shape their long-pursued hunt for the elusive IPL title.
Fans, coaches, and analysts are all likely to keep their attention tuned to the decisions coming down the pipeline as RCB gears up for another competitive season. With the pressures of expectations, branding, and performance looming overhead, how the franchise handles its player roster remains one of the most captivating stories leading up to the mega-auction.
For Virat Kohli and others, this chapter marks not just the potential for salary increase but for a fresh hope among RCB's supporters, who remain loyal to their franchise through thick and thin. The exciting possibilities of the auction, the stakes for retaining high-value players, and the race for the championship title keep the IPL series not just competitive but absolutely thrilling.