Sunil Gavaskar Slams IPL's Uncapped Player Rule Change, Alleges Bias Toward MS Dhoni

Crorepati Culture" Hurting Young Players, Says Gavaskar

Gavaskar also raised concerns over the negative impact the money-rich league is having on emerging Indian cricketers. He stated that players normally lose their trend after earning large sums in the IPL, which impacts their overall growth and commitment to the sport.

“Most of the guys who suddenly become crorepatis are overwhelmed... by their sudden good fortune and then by the nervousness of rubbing shoulders with those they have admired,” he said. “They are often not even part of their State's squad of top 30 players.”

Also, the legend came forward, taking action over the big money being paid to uncapped players in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The rise of the T20 format and the emergence of IPL have given the young talents a big stage to perform and showcase their talent, they have expertise related to the cricketing world. The popularity of the league has also led to an increase in the auction purse for the franchise as several players, from young to experienced, hit the paydirt for playing in the IPL.

Gavaskar’s Warning for IPL Auction

The former Indian captain’s suggestions serve as a warning that while the IPL has revolutionized Indian cricket finally as well as globally. It should also be responsible for supporting young talents sustainably as well. Gavaskar’s comments gear up the ongoing debate over maintaining legacy with merit, and whether existing systems prioritize fame over emerging talent.

As the IPL continues to change constantly, voices like Gavaskar’s could be iconic and effectively contribute to shaping reforms that safeguard the integrity of Indian cricket and offer fair opportunities to the country’s emerging talent.

In the IPL 2025 mega auction, Rasikh Dar comes out to be the most expensive uncapped player with RCB getting him for INR 6 crore. However, the right-arm bowler has only managed to play two matches this season so far.

The iconic former cricketer stated that with the big price tag comes an expectations factor, and many young talents fail to live up to it. When their price gets dropped next year, things start working in their favor. "What happens is that if in the next auction his price comes down, then the pressure of expectations also comes down and the player plays a lot better," he wrote.