The BCCI has explored all the potential options for hosting the IPL 2025 mega auction and zeroed in on two cities: Riyadh and Jeddah. Vienna, Singapore, Dubai, and London were considered, but the BCCI has decided that it will take place in Saudi Arabia. Right now, Riyadh is the front-runner, and the official announcement should come in a few days. The decision to pick Saudi Arabia isn’t just a shot in the dark but rather a meticulously planned one, logistically and strategically.
According to Cricbuzz, BCCI has already sent officials to Saudi Arabia to visit, and another batch is expected to travel there today (October 21). The franchises wanted the two-day auction to be held in India, but that wasn’t an option. Now, they are waiting for BCCI to finalize the venue and date for the IPL mega auction so they can make travel arrangements.
IPL auction vs Perth Test?
For some time now, we’ve heard that late November is when bidding wars will start. That remains the case. November 25-26 are the likely dates for the auction. The BCCI had some apprehension about the dates as the India vs Australia 1st Test (November 22-26) will clash with the IPL mega auction.
Since the broadcaster for both events is the same, Disney Star, it’ll be like pitting two products of yours against each other. Over the years, the IPL auction has become an event, and millions of people tune in to watch the event. BCCI knows this, and to ensure there is no overlap, the auction will likely start in the afternoon (Indian time) as the Perth Test would start early in the morning.