The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just about big auctions and explosive bids; it’s a chessboard where smart retentions can shape the destiny of a franchise for years. In an ecosystem where a single season can flip the narrative for a team, the decision to retain a player often invites intense scrutiny. But when these retentions hit the mark, they lay the foundation for dynasties.
These are not just stories of talent, they’re tales of trust. Of franchises looking beyond short-term numbers to place their faith in players who would go on to become match-winners, leaders, and icons. Let’s revisit the Top 5 most strategic retentions in IPL history that paid off massively later.
5. Andre Russell – Retained by Kolkata Knight Riders (2018)
Retention Price: ₹8.5 Crore
Why It Was Strategic:
After a one-year ban for a doping code violation, retaining Russell was seen as a gamble. But Kolkata Knight Riders backed his ability to single-handedly win games.
Payoff:
Russell went on to become one of the most feared all-rounders in T20 cricket. His 2019 season was iconic (510 runs at a strike rate of 204.81), and his presence has continued to influence KKR’s balance and confidence even in lean years.
4. Hardik Pandya – Retained by Gujarat Titans (2022)
Retention Price: ₹15 Crore
Why It Was Strategic:
Hardik had just recovered from injuries and hadn’t bowled in a while. Yet, Gujarat took a bold call to retain and make him captain despite never leading before.
Payoff:
He led GT to a title in their debut season in 2022 and a runners-up finish in 2023. As a player, he rediscovered his bowling rhythm and showcased mature leadership, making the retention a masterstroke of vision and risk-taking.
3. Virat Kohli – Retained by Royal Challengers Bangalore (2011 & every cycle since)
Retention Price (2022): ₹15 Crore
Why It Was Strategic:
RCB built their brand around Kohli. While he hadn’t yet exploded as the T20 force he would become, RCB foresaw his potential and leadership qualities.
Payoff:
Kohli became the heartbeat of RCB, leading them for almost a decade. He owns the record for most runs in IPL history, including a mind-boggling 973-run season in 2016. Even though a title eluded him as captain, his loyalty, consistency, and star power kept RCB among the league’s most marketable teams.
2. MS Dhoni – Retained by Chennai Super Kings (2018)
Retention Price: ₹15 Crore
Why It Was Strategic:
Critics said age was catching up. After CSK’s two-year ban, many believed it was time to rebuild. But CSK stuck with Thala, and how that paid off!
Payoff:
Dhoni led CSK to the 2018 title in a fairytale comeback. He also lifted the trophy again in 2021 and 2023, extending CSK’s golden legacy. His leadership, calmness, and unmatched fan connection have made him irreplaceable, not just as a player but as the soul of the franchise.
1. Jasprit Bumrah – Retained by Mumbai Indians (2018)
Retention Price: ₹7 Crore
Why It Was Strategic:
Back in 2018, Bumrah wasn’t the world-beating force he is today. MI saw potential in his sharp yorkers and unorthodox action. Despite pressure to retain a more experienced overseas name, they chose their homegrown weapon.
Payoff:
Bumrah became the spearhead of MI’s bowling attack, delivering consistently in death overs and often changing the game in a single over. He was central to MI’s title wins in 2019 and 2020 and evolved into India’s best all-format bowler.
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