The IPL 2026 auction may yet again be held outside India, according to a report in Cricbuzz. While teams have not been informed about the venue, they have been given hints. According to the report, the BCCI
is eyeing a Gulf destination once again, with Abu Dhabi emerging as the frontrunner, though Oman and Qatar are under consideration as well.
The move marks a shift from BCCI’s earlier intention to hold the auction in India. However, bagging a suitable venue during the proposed window has proven tough, as it coincides with the busy festival and wedding season across the nation.
According to earlier reports, the auction might take place around mid-December, most probably in the latter half of the month. The BCCI is expected to confirm the date and venue before Saturday, November 15, the deadline for teams to submit their list of retained and released cricketers for IPL 2026.
With the retention deadline just two weeks away, chatter around cricketer retentions and potential trades is heating up, with Sanju Samson’s future emerging as a key talking point.
Despite inconsistent performances in international cricket, including the recent Asia Cup and the ongoing Australia series, Samson remains one of the most sought-after names in the Indian Premier League, with multiple teams valuing his proven impact in the league.
The next few days could bring clarity on Samson’s potential trade, with Rajasthan Royals’ lead owner Manoj Badale all set to arrive in India. Based in the United Kingdom, the latter is scheduled to reach Mumbai on Tuesday, when key retention calls are expected to be made, including those involving Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga.
The two Sri Lankan spinners were on the release list during Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach, according to the report, but with Kumar Sangakkara back in charge, it remains to be seen if the Royals reconsider their stance.
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