The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction is likely to take place in the third week of December. Earlier, it was rumored that the event might be held in the Gulf region on December 15, but now an updated report suggests that the auction will be most likely conducted in India. However, the BCCI has not yet made an official announcement. It is worth mentioning that the last two auctions were held abroad (Dubai in 2023 and Jeddah in 2024).
According to a report by the Times of India, the day for the mini-auction has been set aside as December 15, while the retention deadline for all ten IPL franchises is on November 15.
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Previously, Cricbuzz had reported that the BCCI was looking for a number of Gulf venues for the event with Abu Dhabi being the front runner, and Oman and Qatar were also considered. Nevertheless, the latest update from TOI indicates that there is a change of plan with India hosting the IPL auction for the first time since 2022. Though the specific city has not been disclosed yet.
Moreover, the WPL auction is scheduled to take place in Delhi on November 27. It will be the first-ever mega auction in WPL’s history since the league has been established.
More about IPL and legend Dhoni
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan ended the suspense over MS Dhoni's participation in IPL 2026. Viswanathan confirmed the development to Cricbuzz. "MS has told us that he will be available for the next season," Viswanathan was quoted as saying in a report.
Like Dhoni, Viswanathan too has been associated with the franchise since the inception of the cash-rich league in 2008. In addition, he shares strong relation with N Srinivasan, the franchise owner.
There have been suspense around Dhoni's future in the league as he is currently 44. However, the development should put an end to any speculation around the subject at least till the next edition.
CSK had finished last in the previous edition as Dhoni was back at the helm of things after injury ruled out Ruturaj Gaikwad midway during the season.
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