BCCI consider hosting IPL 2025 mega auction outside India

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is exploring the possibility of holding the IPL 2025 mega auction outside India. Abu Dhabi is currently the frontrunner to host the event, with Muscat and Doha also being considered as potential venues.

Although the exact dates for the auction have not yet been announced, sources suggest that the BCCI is looking at two options: either the second week of November or the third week of December. The auction is expected to be held before BCCI Secretary Jay Shah takes up his new role as ICC chairman on December 1, 2024.

“The BCCI is exploring various options, and the franchises will be informed in due course about the final venue,” a source close to the development said.

The BCCI’s operations team is currently assessing the logistical requirements and availability of key personnel. A final decision on the venue is expected to be made within the next few weeks.

Last year’s IPL auction was held in Dubai, and although the BCCI is considering various Middle Eastern cities and even London, Abu Dhabi seems to be leading the race for this year’s event. The two-day auction will require careful planning, and the BCCI is looking at dates around November 16-17 or between December 15-20.

Meanwhile, the IPL 2025 retention policy is yet to be officially communicated to the franchises. After meeting with the team owners in July, the BCCI had promised to release the updated retention policy by early August. However, no official update has been sent, leaving franchises uncertain about their plans.

Sources within the BCCI hinted that a formal update on the retention rules could be sent out by the end of this week or early next week. Franchises will need to finalize their travel and logistical plans based on the auction date and location.

In other IPL news, former Indian cricket team coaches Vikram Rathour and Paras Mhambrey are reportedly in discussions with franchises for coaching roles. Rathour is likely to rejoin former Indian head coach Rahul Dravid at Rajasthan Royals, while Mhambrey is currently in negotiations and has turned down a commentary offer.

Additionally, Punjab Kings have announced Ricky Ponting as their new head coach, replacing his previous role at Delhi Capitals. Former Indian fast bowler Munaf Patel is also expected to join an IPL team as a coach ahead of the next season.