The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly narrowed down two cities, Riyadh and Jeddah, as the potential hosts for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction. Although there is no official confirmation from the BCCI, the Saudi Arabian capital emerges as the leading choice for the mega event ahead of India’s cash-rich T20 league.
According to a report run by Cricbuzz, the IPL 2025 mega auction is likely to take place on November 24 and 25 in Saudi Arabia, with an official announcement from the BCCI expected in a few days' time.
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BCCI Explored London, Singapore, Dubai, & Vienna As Potential IPL Mega Auction Venues
Before narrowing down to Saudi Arabia, the BCCI also explored other overseas options like London, Dubai, Singapore and even Vienna. However, the BCCI deemed Riyadh as an ideal venue for the two-day mega auction event.
The Cricbuzz report also adds that some BCCI officials have already visited Saudi Arabia, with another group set to reach the Gulf nation on October 21 (Monday).
Another challenge for the BCCI regarding the organisation of the IPL mega auction is that the proposed dates for the event clash with the first Australia vs India Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to take place in Perth from November 22-26. Since Disney Star is set to broadcast both the events, all parties were keen to avoid any scheduling overlap.
However, due to the time difference with Australia, a scheduling conflict between the match and the auction is unlikely. The auction could be scheduled for the afternoon in Indian Standard Time (IST) whereas the Perth Test is set for an early morning start according to India’s timing.
The report also adds that the IPL franchises preferred the auction to take place in India, but with that option off the table, they are urging the BCCI to finalise the venue quickly so they can arrange travel for their delegations.
Notably, before the auction, teams must submit their player retention lists, with the deadline set for 5 PM on October 31.