INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE (IPL) 2026 auction is expected to take place in the second or third week of December, with 13–15 December emerging as the most probable window. According to franchise officials who have spoken with BCCI authorities, discussions are focused on those dates, though the IPL Governing Council is yet to finalise the schedule, Cricbuzz reports.
Unlike the previous two editions, held in Dubai (2023) and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (2024), there are currently no indications that this year’s auction will be staged overseas. Franchise insiders suggest it would not be surprising if the BCCI opts to host the mini-auction in India, though a final decision remains pending.
What does appear certain, however, is that 15 November has been set as the player retention deadline. By this date, all franchises must submit their list of retained and released players ahead of the auction. While major overhauls are not expected across most teams, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals; both of whom finished at the bottom last season could see more significant changes.
