The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction will likely to take place in the second or third week of December, with December 13 to 15 looking like the most likely dates. While these dates are being discussed, the IPL Governing Council has not yet officially confirmed the schedule.
Where will IPL 2026 auction take place?
Cricbuzz reported that, unlike the last two years when the auction was held overseas, first in Dubai in 2023 and then in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 2024, there is no indication this time that the auction will be held outside India. In fact, some sources within the franchises believe the auction may take place in India, although that decision hasn’t been finalised yet.
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What is the retention deadline for IPL 2026?
According to Cricbuzz, one thing that does seem certain is the retention deadline. Franchises must submit the list of players they want to release by November 15. While a major overhaul across teams isn’t expected, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, who finished at the bottom of the table in the last edition of the tournament, will likely to go for massive changes.
Massive changes in teams
Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, Rahul Tripathi, Sam Curran, and even Devon Conway will reportedly be released by the Chennai Super Kings. The five-time champions already have an extra 9.75 crore rupees added to their auction purse following R Ashwin’s retirement from the IPL.
While with, Rajasthan Royals, there’s a possibility that Sanju Samson could be released, unless the team manages to trade him to another franchise. There has also been speculation about the Royals letting go of their Sri Lankan spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, although with Kumar Sangakkara expected to return as head coach, those plans could change.
Other players who might find themselves looking for new teams include T Natarajan, Mitchell Starc, Akash Deep, Mayank Yadav and David Miller. There’s also uncertainty around Venkatesh Iyer, who was one of the most expensive players at the last auction, picked up by Kolkata Knight Riders for 23.75 crore rupees.
Cameron Green will be the player to watch out for
One name that is already creating a buzz is Cameron Green. The Australian all-rounder missed the previous auction due to injury, but this time around, multiple franchises are reportedly showing interest. He is expected to be one of the players to watch out for at the IPL 2026 auction.