IPL 2026 Auction Set for Abu Dhabi, December 15 or 16: What to Expect
New Delhi, November 12, 2025 The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction is officially set to take place in Abu Dhabi, with reports suggesting the event will occur on either December 15 or 16. This marks the third consecutive time the IPL auction will be held outside India, following Dubai in 2023 and Jeddah in 2024. While the venue is confirmed, the exact date is yet to be officially announced. Unlike the mega auction of 2025, this year’s auction will be a mini auction. The focus will be on filling gaps in the squads and making strategic trades ahead of the upcoming season. The deadline for all ten IPL franchises to finalize their player retentions is November 15, adding urgency to last-minute deals and player movements. One of the most talked-about potential trades involves long-time Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson possibly moving to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). RR could, in turn, acquire the services of Ravindra Jadeja from CSK, though the details of whether it will be a direct swap or include additional players are still under discussion. Talks over Washington Sundar moving from Gujarat Titans to CSK reportedly stalled, as GT assured the all-rounder consistent playing time in the next season. Earlier, Mumbai and Bengaluru were considered as potential hosts for the auction, but Abu Dhabi was ultimately chosen for convenience, particularly for overseas support staff involved in broadcasting and coaching, many of whom are also busy with the Ashes series. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) enter IPL 2026 as defending champions, having secured their first-ever title in 2025. With player retentions and trades still being finalized, franchises are preparing strategically to strengthen their squads. Fans are particularly keen on high-profile transfers and emerging players who could make a significant impact in the upcoming season. With the auction just over a month away, excitement is building among cricket enthusiasts worldwide. From potential blockbuster trades to key picks in the mini auction, IPL 2026 promises another thrilling season filled with intense competition and star-studded action. IPL 2026 Auction Set for Abu Dhabi, December 15 or 16: What to Expect The IPL 2026 mini auction is set to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 15 or 16. This is the third straight year the auction is being held outside India, following Dubai in 2023 and Jeddah in 2024. While the venue is confirmed, the exact date is still being finalized. Franchises are busy planning their squads after the 2025 mega auction. The deadline to finalize player retentions for all ten teams is November 15, leaving little time for last-minute trades and strategy tweaks. One of the most anticipated moves could see Rajasthan Royals’ long-time skipper Sanju Samson joining Chennai Super Kings, with RR potentially gaining Ravindra Jadeja in return. Discussions are still ongoing, and it’s unclear if other players could be involved. Abu Dhabi was chosen over Indian cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru for convenience, especially for overseas support staff involved in coaching and broadcasting. RCB, the defending champions, will look to defend their title after winning their maiden trophy in 2025. Fans are excited for the auction, high-profile trades, and emerging talent picks that could change team dynamics. With the mini auction approaching, the cricket world is buzzing for IPL 2026, promising thrilling matches, strategic moves, and star-studded action across the league.
