The IPL 2026 auction is likely to be held in India; the BCCI may make a key decision

Reports suggest the IPL 2026 mini-auction may be held in India between December 13–15. After Dubai and Jeddah hosted previous auctions, cities like Ahmedabad and Bengaluru are in contention. Franchises must submit retained player lists by November 15.

IPL 2026 Auction: Reports suggest that this time the mini-auction may be held in India. Previously, the IPL 2024 auction was held in Dubai, and the IPL 2025 auction was held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. However, it is now being speculated that the IPL 2026 mini-auction will be held in India.

BCCI's Strategy Shift

The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) has not yet officially announced the date and venue for the IPL 2026 auction. However, according to a Cricbuzz report, the auction could take place between December 13 and 15, 2025.

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If the auction takes place in India, it would not be surprising, as it marks the return of the auction to India after a long time. Which city will be given the opportunity to host the auction?

Bengaluru has hosted the IPL auction the most number of times so far, with a total of seven. Chennai has hosted the auction three times. Kochi last hosted the auction in India in 2023.

However, in recent years, the BCCI has increasingly leaned towards Ahmedabad. Since the arrival of the Gujarat Titans, three out of four IPL finals have been played in Ahmedabad. There is speculation that the IPL 2026 auction could be held there.

Interestingly, Mumbai, which has never hosted an auction since the first season in 2008, has remained out of the process so far.

Update on the list of retained and released players

According to reports, IPL franchises will have to submit their list of retained and released players by November 15, 2025. This time, several big names may be dropped from the teams.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) could make some major decisions. In particular, Sanju Samson's name is being discussed, and there's a possibility he could be released. This could lead to major changes in the upcoming auction.

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Excitement and discussion surrounding the IPL 2026 auction have intensified. If the auction takes place in India, it will be a special occasion for fans.

This move by the BCCI indicates that it wants to retain the league's popularity on the international stage while also engaging domestic fans. All eyes are now on the BCCI's formal announcement.