IPL 2025 retention top players: The announcement of the IPL retention list on Thursday has put a spotlight on emerging talents like Mayank Yadav, Dhruv Jurel, and Rinku Singh, who have become notable beneficiaries of this year’s decisions. After showcasing impressive performances in the previous season, these rising star players have captured the attention of franchise management, leading to a surge in their value and prospects within the league. Their consistent displays have not only earned them a place in their respective teams but also a renewed sense of confidence from franchise owners, signaling a shift towards investing in youthful talent. As teams gear up for the upcoming season, the inclusion of these promising players reflects a broader trend of prioritizing emerging skills and potential over established names, paving the way for an exciting new chapter in the IPL.
Here’s a look at the star players’ who were retained at an outstanding pay:
Dhruv Jurel (Rajasthan Royals)
Dhruv Jurel has emerged as the biggest beneficiary in the IPL retention process, being retained by Rajasthan Royals for an impressive Rs 14 crore. Originally acquired during the 2021 mega auction, Jurel made a significant impact in IPL 2022, scoring 152 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 172.73 as an impact player. His performances led to his inclusion in the Test series against England, where he showcased his talent by scoring a crucial 90 runs in the first innings of the Ranchi Test. In IPL 2023, Jurel further solidified his reputation by taking on a finishing role, accumulating 195 runs at a strike rate of 138.30. His salary in 2024 was Rs 20 lakh.
Rajat Patidar (Royal Challengers Bangalore)
Rajat Patidar joined Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as a replacement player in IPL 2023, even postponing his wedding to take the opportunity. Initially uncertain, he made a remarkable impact, finishing the season with 333 runs in just eight innings at a strike rate of 152.50. Notably, he delivered a stunning performance against the Lucknow Super Giants, scoring 112 runs off just 54 balls in the eliminator match. In IPL 2024, despite a slow start, Patidar found his rhythm and went on to score 395 runs at an impressive strike rate of 177.13, including five half-centuries. His pay in 2024 was Rs 20 lakh.
Mayank Yadav (Lucknow Super Giants)
Fast-rising pace bowler Mayank Yadav has been retained by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for ₹11 crore. Having rapidly advanced to the senior team, Mayank made his T20I debut against Bangladesh. In the IPL, he bowled just 12.1 overs but consistently reached impressive speeds of 150 kph.
Matheesha Pathirana (Chennai Super Kings)
The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have retained Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana for Rs 13 crore. Pathirana was instrumental in CSK’s success during IPL 2023, where he took 19 wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 7.68. His 2024 salary was Rs 20 lakh.
Rinku Singh (Kolkata Knight Riders)
Rinku Singh has been retained by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for Rs 13 crore ahead of the 2025 IPL mega auction. Initially signed for Rs 55 lakh, his earnings have skyrocketed nearly 24 times, making him KKR’s premier retention choice for the upcoming season.
Sai Sudharsan (Gujarat Titans)
Sai Sudharsan was originally acquired by Gujarat Titans for his base price of Rs 20 lakh in 2022. Over the course of three seasons, his value has significantly increased. The left-handed batsman reached the milestone of 1,000 runs in just his 25th IPL innings, breaking the joint Indian record previously held by Sachin Tendulkar and Ruturaj Gaikwad, both of whom accomplished this in 31 innings.
Shashank Singh (Punjab Kings)
Shashank Singh, a middle-order batsman, secured his IPL contract with Punjab Kings in 2024 following a mix-up during the auction. Despite the initial confusion, he showcased his talent by scoring 354 runs at an impressive strike rate of 164.65.