IPL 2025: 5 Best Retentions by Franchises

Franchises made some audacious and calculated choices by securing the core players of their teams ahead of the IPL 2025 big auction. A few retentions stood out as wise choices that might define the season, even as some unexpected exclusions garnered media attention.

These retention honored dependable players and up-and-coming talent, reflecting each franchise's long-term vision. Whether an established match-winner or a rising star, these selections had the potential to shape outcomes in the tournament and even influence team culture for years to come.

Here are the 5 best retentions by franchises in IPL 2025:

1. Heinrich Klaasen (SRH)

Retained for INR 23 crores, Heinrich Klaasen turned out to be Sunrisers Hyderabad's wise choice.  With a top score of 105*, he amassed 487 runs at an average of 44.87 and a strike rate of 172.69 in 14 games.

His potent middle-order batting provided SRH with the lift they required in crucial games. Klaasen was a great asset because of his constant ability to set boundaries.  By keeping him in the lineup, SRH was able to maintain stability and power, and his presence gave their younger batting core more maturity.

2. Sai Sudharsan (GT)

Retained for INR 8.50 crores, Sai Sudharsan had a spectacular IPL 2025 season with the Gujarat Titans, amassing 759 runs at an average of 54.21 in 15 games, including six fifties and a century. His dominance at the top was essential to GT's successful campaign.

His quality was highlighted by his maturity and ability to change gears. Despite losing in the Eliminator, GT made it to the playoffs, where Sudharsan played a critical part the entire time. He was a future regular for the Indian team because of his thirst for runs and composed demeanor under duress.

3. Varun Chakaravarthy (KKR)

Varun Chakaravarthy, who was retained for INR 12 crores, continued to be a vital component of KKR's bowling attack. He used his mysterious spin to limit opponents and continuously generate wicket-taking opportunities, taking 17 wickets at an economy of 7.66 in 13 games.

He was a consistent match-winner because of his capacity to exert pressure and end partnerships. Even though KKR had a poor season, keeping Chakaravarthy gave them vital middle-over control and a reliable spinner to go with Sunil Narine.

4. Jasprit Bumrah (MI)

Jasprit Bumrah was once again one of the greatest fast bowlers in the 2025 Indian Premier League with 18 wickets in 12 games, an economy of 6.67, and a high of 4/22. He was rightfully retained by the Mumbai Indians for INR 18 crores.

Under pressure, Bumrah continued to be their go-to bowler, taking wickets when needed for captain Hardik Pandya. His retention was a clear and significant choice because of his consistency and death-over mastery. MI's bench has also been bolstered by his effect on younger bowlers.

5. Virat Kohli (RCB)

With 614 runs at an average of 55.81 and eight half-centuries in 14 games, Virat Kohli paid back every rupee of the INR 21 crores that the RCB had retained him for.  He commanded the top order with unparalleled discipline and played a key role in RCB's run to the IPL 2025 final.

Kohli's experience and leadership were invaluable.  Younger teammates were motivated by his exuberant demeanor, particularly Rajat Patidar on his debut as captain.  By keeping Kohli, RCB made sure they have a dependable anchor, a cultural figure, and a coach who keeps pushing the boundaries on and off the field.

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