IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Players Other Than MS Dhoni Who Can Be Retained Under New Uncapped Player Rule

The IPL Mega Auction 2025 is set to add new momentum with its updated retention rules recently announced by the IPL Board of Directors.

A major change to these rules states that any Indian player who has not played for the national team in any form in the last five years will now be considered an “uncapped player”.

This has opened the door for certain experienced cricketers other than MS Dhoni to be retained as uncapped players for the upcoming season.

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Which players could be retained as non-cap players under this rule?

MS Dhoni has been the face of CSK since the inception of the IPL. Since he retired from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni can technically be retained as an international player for the mega auction under the new international rule.

Apart from MS Dhoni, several players who meet the eligibility criteria could be crucial for their teams in IPL 2025. Let's take a look at some notable names.

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1. Mohit Sharma

Mohit Sharma, known for his impeccable control in death-over bowling, made a comeback in the IPL with the Gujarat Titans and impressed with his variations.

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Despite being an internationally capped player in the past, he has not played for India since 2015, making him eligible to remain as an uncapped player for IPL 2025.

2. Sandeep Sharma

Sandeep Sharma has performed consistently for Rajasthan Royals and contributed with wickets at crucial intervals.

His last international appearance was in 2015, making him a prime candidate for teams looking to retain experienced but undrafted talent.

3. Piyush Chawla

The veteran leg-spinner, who was part of the Mumbai Indians, has proved his worth with consistent performances in the last few IPL seasons.

With his last appearance for India coming in 2012, Chawla could be retained as an uncapped player, adding balance and depth to any bowling line-up.

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4. Vijay Shankar

Despite some ups and downs, Vijay Shankar is a valuable asset due to his all-round abilities. His last appearance for India was in 2019.