The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) Auction for Season 18 is likely to take place in November, with the third or fourth weekend of the month being the expected dates. According to Cricbuzz, sources from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have indicated that the auction will almost certainly be held overseas, similar to last year’s auction in Dubai.
Middle East likely to host IPL Auction
With the IPL franchises getting ready for the auction, reports from Cricbuzz suggest that the BCCI is considering the Middle East as the venue. Dubai, which was hosted in the 2023 auction. Other Gulf cities like Doha and Abu Dhabi are also being considered. Saudi Arabia has also reportedly expressed interest in hosting the event, which has been investing heavily on sports, including cricket. However, as per the sources within the IPL revealed Cricbuzz, the BCCI has not yet made a final decision on the venue.
Franchises await the retention Rules
Even with the ongoing buzz, IPL franchises are cautiously waiting for the announcement of retention rules, which the BCCI is yet to finalize. Cricbuzz reports that the rules are expected to be announced by the end of this month, giving teams about two months to prepare for the auction. With the retentions due by November 15, it has raised concerns among the franchise officials to prepare for the auction.
Coaches from Dravid’s Tenure Likely to Join IPL Franchises
Changes in coaching positions are likely happen. According to Cricbuzz, coaches who worked with Rahul Dravid during his tenure with the Indian team are expected to be appointed by the IPL franchises. Vikram Rathour, India’s former batting coach, is likely to join Rajasthan Royals, potentially replacing Trevor Penney, who might be reassigned to the Royals’ Caribbean Premier League (CPL) team, the Barbados Royals.
Paras Mhambrey, India’s former bowling coach under Dravid, is also expected to join an IPL franchise, although it hasn’t been officially confirmed yet. Cricbuzz further reports that the former coaches preferring coaching roles over commentary offers in the IPL. Munaf Patel, the fastest bowler from the 2011 World Cup-winner will also be the part of the coaching lineup in this season’s league.
IPL Auction Goes Global
This Indian Premier League auction will be held outside India for the second year in the row. Although the BCCI had long aimed to host the event overseas, with last year’s auction in Dubai. Cricbuzz had previously reported that cities like London and Istanbul were considered as possible venues in previous seasons.
