Cities BCCI is Considering for the IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Details Inside

The IPL 2025 mega auction is anticipated to follow a two-day format, allowing franchises sufficient time to plan their rosters for the upcoming season.

Most of the cricket fans were eagerly waiting for the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League, every year there might be a new level of excitement surrounding the upcoming mega auction, which will shape the list for the next cycle of the tournament. In an exciting move, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering hosting this highly anticipated event in a Saudi city, with Riyadh and Jeddah emerging as strong contenders. This decision marks an important shift in the IPL’s global footprint, as Saudi Arabia’s interest in hosting sporting events continues to rise. 

Saudi Arabia: A Bold Choice for the IPL Mega Auction

Traditionally, the IPL auction has been held in India, with recent editions being conducted in Dubai due to the pandemic and logistical conveniences. However, the BCCI is now exploring Saudi Arabia for the IPL 2025 mega auction, which is set to take place in the last week of November. This potential move comes as part of the broader strategy to expand cricket’s dominance in the Middle East and attract global attention. 

While Riyadh and Jeddah have emerged as top choices, Dubai, a previous host, is no longer there. The decision to move away from Dubai is completely unexpected. Reports indicate that while Dubai remains a convenient and familiar location, the BCCI is keen to explore new venues in Saudi Arabia, despite the 

Saudi Arabia's increasing focus on global sports—evidenced by prominent boxing matches, football investments, and Formula 1 events—positions it as an appealing choice for the BCCI. However, locating an appropriate venue and accommodations for the IPL entourage, which includes 10 franchise delegations and broadcasters such as Jio and Disney Star, has presented a challenge.  

Why London Didn’t Make the Cut

Interestingly, London was initially considered as a possible host city for the auction. However, the cold weather in November ruled out the possibility. The BCCI’s primary focus is on making sure to handle the influx of high-profile attendees and provide the necessary infrastructure for a two-day event. This has pushed Riyadh and Jeddah ahead in the race to host the auction, despite higher operational costs compared to Dubai. 

MS Dhoni’s IPL Future

As discussions about the auction venue take center stage, cricket fans are buzzing about MS Dhoni's future in the IPL. The iconic Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, who has led his team to multiple titles, remains uncertain about participating in the 2025 season. Sources close to the franchise indicate that CSK officials will meet with Dhoni in mid-October to discuss his plans. Having not played international cricket for over five years, Dhoni could be classified as an 'uncapped' player under the new IPL rules, allowing for his retention at a price of Rs 4 crore. His status remains unclear, and the upcoming meeting in Mumbai will likely determine whether 'Thala' will wear the yellow jersey for another season or retire from the game. 

Dhoni's recent return to India after his time in the United States has intensified speculation about his future. Fans around the world are anxiously awaiting updates on whether the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman will remain in the IPL for the 2025 season or if his illustrious career is coming to a close. 

Auction Structure and What to Anticipate

The IPL 2025 mega auction is set to adopt a two-day format, giving franchises sufficient time to strategize their rosters for the upcoming season. With several key players anticipated to be released by their teams, the auction is expected to feature fierce bidding wars. Franchises will aim to assemble squads that can compete for the prestigious IPL trophy, making this auction vital for shaping the future of the tournament.

The prospect of Saudi Arabia as a potential host adds an exciting dimension to the event. It's evident that the BCCI's vision goes beyond the conventional limits of the IPL, aiming to attract new audiences and tap into emerging markets for cricket.