New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the much-anticipated schedule for the IPL 2026 mega auction, setting the stage for another high-stakes bidding bonanza that promises to reshape the Twenty20 landscape.
In a swift follow-up to the retention window that concluded on Saturday, the auction is slated for December 16 at the iconic Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, marking yet another international extravaganza for the world’s richest cricket league.
The retention frenzy, which wrapped up on November 15, saw the 10 franchises collectively hold onto 173 players, blending star power with emerging talent. This leaves a tantalising 77 slots up for auction, providing franchises with a golden opportunity to rebuild their squads. Leading the purse parade is Kolkata Knight Riders with a hefty ₹64.3 crore war chest, followed by Chennai Super Kings at ₹43.4 crore, Sunrisers Hyderabad with ₹25.5 crore, and Rajasthan Royals holding ₹16.4 crore. While BCCI has earmarked a baseline purse of ₹237.55 crore per team — potentially subject to upward revision — the finer rules and conditions for the mega event will be disclosed shortly.
Global cricketers are preparing for the spotlight as player registrations are about to commence. With whispers of strategic overhauls and dream-team visions already swirling, this auction could redefine IPL fortunes, blending drama, dollars, and dazzling displays on the field.
As the cricketing world holds its breath, one thing is certain: Abu Dhabi’s glitzy arena will once again host a spectacle where fortunes are forged and franchises find their fire.