The IPL is a huge platform for cricketers, especially for young or inexperienced players. Every year, many uncapped cricketers get a chance to play in the IPL, and the financial rewards change their lives. This year, the rules for uncapped players were adjusted to benefit Mahendra Singh Dhoni, and the amount of money has been increased.
Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has raised concerns again about the rule changes in the IPL due to Dhoni. He believes these changes are harming Indian cricket. In a column for ‘Sportstar,’ Gavaskar suggested that the BCCI should reconsider these changes.
Under the BCCI’s current rules, players who haven’t played for the Indian national team in five years are considered “uncapped.” Since Dhoni last played for India in 2019, he now falls into this category. However, for Dhoni, the price for an uncapped player has been set at Rs 4 crore. This price tag is significant, making it easier for uncapped players to get IPL contracts. Gavaskar feels this gives young players fame too early, which may harm their drive to improve.
The former Indian cricketer wrote in his column, “When players are bought for large amounts, they may lose their drive and enthusiasm to perform well. This might not be a big concern for the franchises, but Indian cricket will suffer. Whether a player performs or not, their exit will affect Indian cricket. Dhoni was considered an uncapped player before last year’s mega auction, and the limit for uncapped players was raised to Rs 4 crore to include him in the league.”
Gavaskar has asked the BCCI to reconsider the new rules regarding uncapped cricketers’ salaries, stating, “It’s time to review the issue of high salaries to prevent further harm to Indian cricket. High prices come with high expectations, which many young players struggle to meet. Once their prices drop the next year, the situation may improve.”
The former Indian captain said, “I can’t recall any player in recent years who was bought for a big price and justified their place in the team. Maybe with more experience, he will improve, but if he only plays in the local league, his improvement chances are limited.”
Rashid Dar Salam, bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore for Rs 6 crore in the 2025 IPL mega auction, has played just two matches this season. Despite the high price, the 24-year-old pacer has only taken 1 wicket with an economy rate of 11.66.
