The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering shifting the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction abroad, reports Cricbuzz. It is noteworthy that the Indian Cricket Board has given preliminary information to the Indian Premier League franchises, but no official confirmation has been made yet.
The Indian cricket team is currently in Australia for a five-match T20 series. However, the focus is on the next Indian Premier League season, with reports of a retention deadline and a tentative auction schedule being discussed. All ten franchises are allowed to make trades or cash deals during the off-season.
IPL 2026 auction likely to take place in mid-December; BCCI is hopeful that the venues and dates will be finalized…
According to Cricbuzz, the IPL auction for the 2026 season is expected to take place in mid-December. Notably, BCCI had conducted the last two auctions in Dubai and Jeddah respectively.
BCCI is likely to confirm the venue and dates by November 15, which is also the deadline for franchises to submit their retained players list.
The teams have not received official information, but they have been hinted that the auction will almost certainly be held outside India. The Gulf region is currently the frontrunner, with Abu Dhabi emerging as a strong candidate, while Oman and Qatar are also under consideration.
“There seems to be a change in thinking regarding the venue of the IPL auction, which is now likely to be held abroad. Although the franchises have not been officially informed about the city yet, they have definitely been given a hint,” the report said.
BCCI forced to hold IPL auction overseas despite initial plans to host it in India
The BCCI initially hoped to host the upcoming IPL auction in India, but were forced to reconsider. Notably, the dates clash with peak wedding and festival periods, making it difficult to secure suitable space for the board.
With these logistical constraints increasing, the BCCI is now leaning towards shifting the auction abroad even though they were keen to hold it at home.
“This development is a clear deviation from earlier plans, when it appeared that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was keen to host the auction in India itself. However, there now appear to be challenges in securing an ideal location, given that the identified window clashes with the festival and wedding season in the country,” the report said.
IPL teams preparing for mini-auction as they await final confirmation
IPL teams are preparing for the upcoming mini-auction and are waiting for the official confirmation of the dates by the Governing Council.
Most parties are expected to make only minor adjustments rather than sweeping changes. However, Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) may opt for major changes after finishing bottom last season.
Australia all-rounder Cameron Green may be one of the most sought-after players. After missing the previous auction due to injury, the Australian star is expected to spark an aggressive bidding war.
Franchises are currently assessing their purse balance and squad structure to open up slots for targeted signings. The overall strategy remains consistent throughout the league – retain the core group, shed surplus players, and make role-specific upgrades.
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