In a significant shift from its earlier stance, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is now leaning toward hosting the 2026 Indian Premier League auction overseas. While franchises have not been officially notified of the venue, multiple indications suggest that the Gulf region has emerged as the preferred destination.
According to Cricbuzz, Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates is currently the frontrunner to host the event, though other Middle Eastern venues — including Oman and Qatar — remain under consideration.
This marks a change in direction from earlier plans, which favored holding the auction in India. However, the board has faced challenges in securing an ideal location due to a packed festival and wedding season, which overlaps with the proposed auction window.
Timing and announcement expected by mid-November
As reported by Cricbuzz earlier, the auction is likely to be held around mid-December, most probably in the second half of the month. The BCCI is expected to officially confirm both the date and venue before November 15 — the deadline for all franchises to submit their lists of retained and released players.
With less than two weeks until that deadline, internal discussions across IPL franchises have intensified. The retention and release process, often a prelude to major squad reshuffles, is shaping the early narrative around the 2026 season.
Sanju Samson trade speculation dominates early discussions
Among the most talked-about developments is the potential trade of Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson, which has generated widespread buzz across IPL circles. While Samson’s recent international performances — including those during the Asia Cup and the ongoing series in Australia — have been inconsistent, several franchises continue to view him as a highly valuable IPL performer.
The situation is expected to develop further in the coming days, with Rajasthan Royals lead owner Manoj Badale set to arrive in Mumbai to finalize retention decisions. Based in the United Kingdom, Badale’s visit could play a key role in determining whether the Royals retain key players or explore major trades ahead of the auction.
Key retention decisions and trade rumors take shape
Among those under review are Sri Lankan spinners Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga, both of whom were previously believed to be on the potential release list during Rahul Dravid’s tenure as head coach. With Kumar Sangakkara back in charge, the team’s approach to these players may yet shift.
Meanwhile, speculation around veteran pacer Mohammed Shami continues, though Sunrisers Hyderabad are reportedly reluctant to part ways with him. The franchise is understood to have turned down multiple trade offers, signaling its intent to retain the experienced bowler for the upcoming season.
Elsewhere, Chennai Super Kings, Lucknow Super Giants, and Kolkata Knight Riders are expected to make several releases as they look to restructure their squads and free up purse space before the auction.
Abu Dhabi poised to host another major cricket event
If finalized, Abu Dhabi’s selection would extend the city’s growing association with major cricketing events. The UAE previously hosted the IPL during the pandemic years and continues to serve as a logistical hub for global T20 tournaments.
With the IPL’s global footprint expanding and logistical pressures mounting domestically, an overseas auction would underline the league’s increasingly international identity — even before a ball is bowled in the 2026 season.
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