- By Gurmeet Batra
- Sun, 02 Nov 2025 04:45 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
IPL 2026 Auction: In a potential game-changer, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly weighing options for the IPL 2026 auction, with multiple Gulf destinations in the running to host the event.
Although the board has yet to make an official announcement, all 10 franchises have been discreetly informed about the potential shift.
Abu Dhabi is reportedly the frontrunner to host the IPL auction, with other promising destinations in the Middle East, such as Oman and Qatar.
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A report in Cricbuzz read, "The development is a clear departure from an earlier plan, 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 seem to be challenges in securing an ideal venue, given that the identified window clashes with the festival and wedding season in the country."
The BCCI is likely to confirm the IPL auction's date and venue by November 15.
With the retention deadline fast closing, the rumour around certain players is growing louder.
According to Cricbizz, Sanju Samson is at the centre of the bombardment, having reportedly asked Rajasthan Royals (RR) to either release him or explore trade options before the auction.