Cricket fans are eagerly awaiting the IPL 2026 auction, and recent reports suggest it is likely to be held in India on December 15, 2025. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to make an official announcement regarding the venue, sources indicate that the auction will return to India after being held overseas in Dubai in 2023 and Jeddah in 2024. Mumbai is a likely venue, marking the return of the auction to India.
The IPL 2026 mini-auction is crucial for teams looking to fill gaps, make strategic acquisitions, and strengthen their squads for the upcoming season. All ten franchises are required to finalize their lists of retained and released players by November 15, 2025, ahead of the auction. Unlike previous mega auctions, there is no limit on the number of players each team can retain this year. However, teams must still adhere to the overall squad size limit of up to 25 players and the salary cap restrictions, with a total purse limit of around INR 120 crore.
Several reports indicate the auction date will be December 15. Other sources suggest that the auction might take place between December 13 and December 15. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) could be the reason for this window, as 120 of the 125 matches will be played by December 14.
As the retention deadline approaches, trade rumors are circulating, with Sanju Samson potentially moving to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja. Rajasthan Royals are reportedly seeking an additional player to balance the deal, but CSK is hesitant to part with key squad members like Jadeja or Ruturaj Gaikwad. Other trade rumors link KL Rahul to Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals.
The IPL 2026 mini-auction is expected to feature several high-profile players who were either injured, unsold, or between franchises last season. Cameron Green, who missed the previous auction due to injury, is one of the biggest names expected to be in demand. Other players who could spark bidding wars include Ishan Kishan, Mitchell Starc, T Natarajan and David Miller.
Cricket fans can watch the IPL 2026 retention announcements live on television via the Star Sports Network channels. The event will also be streamed online on the JioHotstar app and website.
In related news, the Women's Premier League (WPL) auction is scheduled for November 27 in Delhi. This will be the first mega-auction of the WPL since its inaugural season.
