As the IPL gears up for the 2025 season, teams are already strategizing about player retention. While official retention rules have yet to be confirmed, current speculation suggests that each franchise may hold on to a total of five players: three Indian players and two international players. The Right to Match (RTM) card’s status remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: several bowlers have made such significant contributions to their teams that their retention appears nearly guaranteed.
Top 10 Bowlers Predicted for Retention in IPL 2025
Every franchise in the IPL has standout bowlers whose exceptional performances in previous seasons have made them invaluable. Let’s take a closer look at the ten bowlers that each franchise is likely to retain, focusing on their achievements, skills, and contributions to their respective teams.
Mumbai Indians: Jasprit Bumrah
The Mumbai Indians will likely secure Jasprit Bumrah’s position as their retained bowler. Since joining the franchise in 2013, Bumrah has become a cornerstone of their bowling attack. With 165 wickets in 133 matches, his unique bowling style and ability to perform in pressure situations have made him one of the league’s top bowlers.
Chennai Super Kings: Mathisha Pathirana
Chennai Super Kings might opt to retain Mathisha Pathirana, a promising talent with an action reminiscent of Lasith Malinga. Since his debut in 2022, Pathirana has impressed with his knack for picking up wickets, recording 35 scalps in just 20 matches. His ability to bowl in the death overs adds immense value to the team.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Mohammad Siraj
For Royal Challengers Bangalore, retaining Mohammad Siraj seems a likely choice. Siraj has emerged as a crucial player, contributing significantly to the team’s bowling lineup. His ability to generate pace and swing makes him an asset, and he shares a strong rapport with the franchise similar to that of superstar Virat Kohli.
Punjab Kings: Arshdeep Singh
Punjab Kings are expected to consider retaining Arshdeep Singh, whose journey with the franchise began in 2019. Arshdeep has consistently performed well, accumulating 76 wickets in 65 matches, including a standout performance in IPL 2024 with 19 wickets. His potential as a key bowler is evident, making him a solid retention option.
Sunrisers Hyderabad: Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been a stalwart for Sunrisers Hyderabad and retaining him seems likely. Bhuvi’s experience and leadership, having served as vice-captain and captain, are instrumental. With a total of 181 wickets in the IPL, his ability to bowl economical overs and pick crucial wickets make him indispensable.
Delhi Capitals: Anrich Norkhia
The Delhi Capitals might choose to retain Anrich Norkhia, although injury concerns have plagued him in the past. Despite this, he has shown potential since joining, claiming 60 wickets in 46 matches. His pace and aggressive bowling style when fit can change the game’s dynamics in crucial moments.
Rajasthan Royals: Yuzvendra Chahal
Yuzvendra Chahal is a key figure for Rajasthan Royals and their likely choice for retention. With an impressive tally of 205 wickets, Chahal is among the top wicket-takers in IPL history. His strategic bowling and experience create immense value for the team during challenging matches.
Lucknow Super Giants: Ravi Bishnoi
Lucknow Super Giants may place their faith in Ravi Bishnoi, a young talent who burst onto the scene in 2020. With 63 wickets to his name, Bishnoi’s skills in taking crucial wickets and his potential for growth position him as an exciting prospect for retention.
Gujarat Titans: Mohammad Shami
Mohammad Shami is likely to be retained by Gujarat Titans, bringing his wealth of experience and success to the table. Despite missing the previous season due to injury, Shami has taken 127 wickets in 110 matches, and his ability to perform in high-stakes situations makes him a likely candidate for retention.
Kolkata Knight Riders: Varun Chakraborty
Kolkata Knight Riders are expected to retain their mystery spinner, Varun Chakraborty. Chakraborty’s unique bowling style has yielded 83 wickets in 71 matches, and his spin bowling is critical in turning the game in KKR’s favor, especially on spin-friendly tracks.
