Updated: October 13, 2020 9:22:37 am
Ajinkya Rahane and Imran Tahir
It is almost halfway through the stage of this IPL, and the tournament’s mid-season transfer window is just around the corner. Unlike last season, the IPL Governing Council has allowed limited player loan transfers this period.
What is the IPL midseason transfer window?
Franchises can lend to limit players, both in India and abroad, and without limit during this window. The assignment process – expression of interest, procedures, etc. – has been applicable as of October 7, but the window will open exactly in the intermediate stage, when all teams have played seven games each.
The IPL had introduced the midseason transfer window last season and opened a five-day window for unlimited player loan transfers. This year, even capped players can be loaned out.
Which players are eligible for transfers?
The IPL loan rules say: “Any player who has played (in XI or as a substitute for concussion) less than two games.”
The credit franchise will obtain the amount mutually agreed between two franchises, which is not subject to a salary cap. Fifty percent of the loan rate must be paid “within 7 days after enrollment” and the remainder “within 7 days after the end of the season game.”
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Is this like the soccer transfer window in January?
Not really. During the January soccer transfer period, both permanent and loan transfers are allowed. The IPL mid-season transfer window restricts movements to loan firms only, through mutually agreed loan fees.
For example, if Ajinkya Rahane of Delhi Capitals, who has played only one match so far, is loaned out to Chennai Super Kings by mutual agreement, the player becomes part of the Chennai-based franchise for the remainder of the season, but Capitals continues to be his parent team.
It means it is a mid-season arrangement and the borrower returns to his parent team next season.
Will the borrower have gambling restrictions?
Yes, the IPL rules prohibit you from playing against the loan franchise. It means that the borrower will have to sit out of the second leg against his main team.
Is this the best opportunity to sign injury replacements?
Not really. Teams can replace an injured player who is discarded from the tournament by choosing unsold players at the base price. Of course, this is subject to approval by the IPL Governing Council.
Possible transfers:
Player: Imran Tahir (CSK).
Who would want it? Capitals of Delhi.
Reason: The leg-spinner had 26 wickets last season, but has yet to get a game this season. DC lost the injured Amit Mishra during the season and may be interested in a similar replacement.
Player: Ajinkya Rahane (DC)
Who would want it? CSK.
Reason: Loan firms are rarely part of the CSK culture. But this year, as MS Dhoni admitted, his hitting has struggled. Rahane has over 3,800 IPL races to his credit. CSK might be interested in a proven top-level actor.
Player: Deepak Hooda (KXIP).
Who would want it? SRH or RR
Reason: It’s a bit surprising that the seasoned spinning bowling all-rounder hasn’t played a game yet this season. Both SRH and RR have been looking for the required balance in their medium order, and Hooda offers versatility.
Player: Chris Lynn (MI).
Who would want it? KXIP or RR
Reason: A set of Mumbai Indians playing XI is one of the reasons the opening batter is left out. Very unlikely move, but teams like KXIP and RR, with their inconsistent hitting performances, might ask questions.
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