The venue for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction is set for a potential shift overseas, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) leaning toward hosting the event in the Gulf region. While the final location has not been officially announced to the teams, Abu Dhabi is currently seen as the front-runner. Oman and Qatar are also being considered as alternative options.
The development marks a change from the earlier understanding that the auction would be held in India. According to officials familiar with the discussions, the challenge has been finding a suitable venue within the scheduled window. The second half of December - the likely auction period — coincides with peak festival and wedding season across the country, making logistics complicated and venue availability limited.
A formal announcement from the BCCI is expected before November 15, which is also the deadline for franchises to submit their final list of retained and released players ahead of IPL Season 19.
Franchise Trade Discussions Intensify
With the retention deadline approaching, trade talks among franchises have gained momentum. The most discussed development centers around Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson. Multiple teams are believed to have shown interest in securing the wicketkeeper-batter, who, despite mixed recent international outings, remains highly valued as an IPL performer.
Delhi Capitals are reported to be the most active in this discussion, exploring a swap involving young South African batter Tristan Stubbs. The Royals, however, are understood to be pushing for additional player value in any negotiation. The situation is expected to take clearer shape once Royals co-owner Manoj Badale arrives in Mumbai this week to lead final decision-making.
Other Player Decisions Under Review
The futures of Sri Lankan spinners Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga are also expected to be reviewed. Earlier plans had indicated they may be released, but with Kumar Sangakkara back in a larger decision-making role, a reversal remains possible. There has also been speculation around the availability of experienced seamer Mohammed Shami. Sunrisers Hyderabad, however, are believed to have rejected trade approaches from multiple franchises, indicating they plan to retain him for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings, Lucknow Super Giants, and Kolkata Knight Riders are expected to release multiple players as they restructure ahead of the auction.
Awaiting Confirmation
The IPL auction venue announcement remains the immediate next milestone. If finalized, this will be the third time the league’s auction moves to the Gulf, after previous editions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Teams are now preparing for clarity on both venue and player retention lists as the IPL trade window enters its decisive phase.