As reported by Cricbuzz, the mega auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is expected to take place overseas during the third or fourth week of November. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has informed franchise owners that this highly anticipated event will likely occur outside India.
The auction is expected to be held in the Middle East, with Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabia being potential locations, as they have expressed interest in hosting. Saudi Arabia may be the leading candidate due to its recent surge in sports investment. Notably, London and Istanbul have also been considered as possible venues in previous years.
The previous year’s auction took place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, marking Mallika Sagar as the first female auctioneer in IPL history. Mitchell Starc was the top purchase by the IPL 2024 champions, Kolkata Knight Riders.
Currently, retention rules for the upcoming mega auction remain unclear. According to the report, these rules are expected to be revealed this month, with a retention announcement deadline likely set for mid-November. The IPL authorities’ decision on the number of retentions will be a key topic of interest.
IPL franchises previously requested a two-year ban on overseas players who withdraw after being purchased
Last month, IPL franchises proposed a two-year ban on overseas players who withdraw from the lucrative league after being auctioned without valid reasons. The franchises noted that such withdrawals negatively affect team performance and strategy.
Additionally, they urged the IPL to require overseas players to participate in the mega auction. They argued that players might only register for mini-auctions to secure larger bids. Notable players like Adam Zampa, Jason Roy, David Willey, Harry Brook, and Mark Wood withdrew from IPL 2024 for various reasons.
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