IPL 2026 auction likely to happen on December 15, BCCI still unsure about venue

Yesterday, the broadcasters for the Indian Premier League (IPL) confirmed the retention deadline for the 2026 auction. November 15, Saturday, has been selected as the date when the franchises announce their release and retention lists.

IPL 2026 auction date

According to the Times of India, the IPL 2026 auction will take place exactly a month after the retention deadline. Therefore, December 15 can be marked on the calendar.

The December 13 to 15 window was mentioned previously. But one has to wonder why the broadcasters will pick Monday as the day for the auction, since just a day or two before (Saturday or Sunday) would, in all likelihood, attract more viewership.

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) could be the reason since 120 of the 125 matches will be played by December 14.

BCCI yet to finalise venue

Deciding on the venue for the IPL 2026 auction seems to be the biggest issue the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is having. Initially, it was reported that India would host it, but that was changed. It was expected that the Middle East run would continue, but now this report claims India could well be hosting it.

Last year, the auction was held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25. And in 2024, Dubai hosted the event on December 19 at the Coca-Cola Arena.

IPL auction venues over the years