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Xtra Time Web Desk: A new twist in the IPL retention strategy has surfaced as reports from ESPN Cricinfo and Cricbuzz reveal that Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are preparing to retain South African wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen for ₹23 crore. This figure exceeds the ₹18 crore set by the IPL Governing Council for the first retention slot by ₹5 crore, highlighting a more flexible approach in retention rules.

As per IPL regulations, franchises have designated slabs for retention—₹18 crore for the first, ₹14 crore for the second, ₹11 crore for the third, and ₹4 crore for uncapped players. However, the total retention amount must fall within the ₹75 crore limit. While franchises are free to distribute these amounts as they see fit, the total amount for a set number of retentions must add up to the allocated figure.

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For instance, if a team chooses to retain three players, the total retention cost is ₹43 crore (₹18 + ₹14 + ₹11). A franchise can exceed the amount for one player and reduce it for another, as long as the overall amount matches or is less than the total allowed for that number of retentions.

This flexibility has opened up room for franchises to negotiate more effectively. Teams like Kolkata Knight Riders could pay less than the slab for key players like Andre Russell and Sunil Narine and allocate more than ₹4 crore to uncapped players like Harshit Rana, as long as they remain within the ₹75 crore limit for five retentions.

As retention strategies evolve, it’s clear that franchises have newfound freedom in tailoring their player retention while adhering to IPL's total budget limits.

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