The IPL 2025 Mega Auction is set to be hosted by Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This event, scheduled for November 24 and 25, 2024. Earlier, IPL auctions were held in certain traditional venues. But this move from BCCI to host it in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia will help expand the global reach of IPL. Previously, the auction was held in Dubai in 2023.
Why Saudi Arabia?
Riyadh emerged as the favorite after BCCI officials visited various cities, including Dubai, Singapore, and London. The advanced infrastructure of Riyadh was the key factor for BCCI to select it as the venue for IPL 2025 Mega Auction. This decision is also made to influence the popularity of IPL beyond India. Auction in Riyadh will attract people from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Countries to be a part of this Mega Event and eventually a viewer of the Indian Premier League.
Auction Dates Clash with India vs. Australia Border Gavaskar Trophy Test Series
The auction coincides with India’s first Test match against Australia in Perth, happening from November 22 to 26. But the BCCI has taken steps to prevent the clash of two big events for Indian cricket fans. The BCCI is thinking of scheduling the auction in the afternoon (IST) which will not clash with the first Test match of India and Australia, starting early in the morning (IST). This timing allows cricket fans to follow both events smoothly, with the Test match airing in the morning. Star Sports is the official broadcaster of both IPL and India vs Australia Test.
Player Retentions and Franchises’ Next Moves
Before the auction, IPL teams must submit their player retention lists by October 31, 2024. Each team is allowed to keep six players, including a maximum of five capped players. Most teams have given signs of whom they’ll retain in the IPL 2025 auction which is provided in the IPL 2025 Retained Player List. With a larger auction purse of ₹120 crore, teams can spend more on the players they need for the balance of the team.
