IPL 2026 Mini-Auction Likely on Dec 13-15; Retention Lists Due Nov 15

New Delhi, Oct 10: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is expected to be held between December 13 and 15, with all franchises required to submit their player retention lists by November 15, according to reports from Cricbuzz. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is in the final stages of confirming the auction schedule and venue, which may see the event return to India after the past two editions were hosted overseas, in Dubai (2023) and Jeddah (2024).

Franchise officials who have engaged with BCCI authorities indicate that discussions are focusing on a mid-December window. Unlike the previous two seasons, when the auction was conducted abroad, the upcoming edition is likely to be organized domestically, although the BCCI has not yet officially confirmed the venue.

Ahead of the auction, all IPL teams must declare their list of retained and released players by November 15. This will allow franchises to determine their auction purse and strategy for acquiring new talent. Teams finishing lower on the points table last season, particularly Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals, are expected to make significant roster adjustments.

Several high-profile players are reportedly set to be released. For CSK, the potential release list includes Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, Rahul Tripathi, Sam Curran, and Devon Conway. The team has received a boost in its auction budget, with an additional Rs 9.75 crore added to the purse following the retirement of veteran spinner R Ashwin.

Rajasthan Royals are facing critical decisions regarding their captain Sanju Samson, who could be released unless a trade deal is arranged. The franchise is also considering releasing Sri Lankan spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, though the expected return of Kumar Sangakkara as head coach could influence these retention decisions. Other players likely to seek new franchises include T Natarajan, Mitchell Starc, Akash Deep, Mayank Yadav, David Miller, and Venkatesh Iyer, who was the third most expensive purchase at the previous auction at Rs 23.75 crore by Kolkata Knight Riders.

One of the most anticipated players for the upcoming auction is Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, who missed the previous auction due to injury. Multiple franchises have already expressed interest in acquiring him, making him one of the most contested players in December.

The IPL mini-auction will provide franchises with the opportunity to revamp their squads, strengthen weak areas, and prepare for the highly competitive 2026 season. With retention lists to be finalized by mid-November, teams are already analyzing player performances and strategizing for key acquisitions.

Franchise officials indicate that the domestic hosting of the auction may allow more media interaction and fan engagement compared to previous overseas editions. As franchises finalize their plans, cricket fans across the country are eagerly awaiting updates on player movements and team compositions for IPL 2026.  (Agencies)