In a first-ever overseas auction, Jeddah will witness cricketers from all corners of the globe competing for a spot in the world’s most exciting cricket league.
For the first time in IPL history, the mega auction is moving beyond Indian borders and heading to the stunning city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25. With over 1,574 players registered, it’s shaping up to be the biggest player auction in IPL history—where dreams will be made, careers changed, and some players might just hit the jackpot of a lifetime.
The BCCI’s choice to host the auction in Jeddah is a nod to the IPL’s massive international fanbase and the league’s rising popularity across new markets. Initially, Riyadh was in the running, but the Abady Al-Johar Arena in Jeddah was ultimately chosen as the venue. The event promises a weekend filled with high-stakes bidding as ten franchises work to secure their perfect squads. For cricket fans worldwide, this move feels like the IPL is coming closer than ever before, and excitement is building up quickly.
Why Is This Auction So Big?
The sheer scale of this auction is unprecedented. A staggering 1,574 players from countries far and wide—including places like the USA, Italy, and even the Netherlands—are in the running. There are only 204 slots open across the ten IPL teams, and 70 of those will go to international players. Each of the 10 franchises will be looking to make savvy choices to fill their 25-player rosters. This year, some of the IPL’s biggest stars will be retained by their current teams, but plenty of slots are still up for grabs, and the stakes have never been higher.
An Auction With Many Firsts and Surprises
One surprise entry in the mix this year is Thomas Draca, a right-arm bowler from Italy, marking the first time an Italian player has registered for the IPL. Draca’s recent performances in the ILT20 league turned heads, and he could be a dark horse in the auction. Other nations sending players include 91 from South Africa, 76 from Australia, and 52 from England, with players from emerging cricket nations like Nepal and the Netherlands also eyeing IPL glory.
Back home in India, fans are buzzing about top players like Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer, who are expected to be hot picks. These stars bring a blend of experience and show-stopping talent that franchises will be eager to grab, even if it means big price tags.
Big Money, Big Decisions for the Teams
Each franchise comes into the auction with a budget to build its dream squad, starting with INR 120 crore. Punjab Kings leads the way with the biggest remaining budget—INR 110.5 crore—while Rajasthan Royals have retained six players already, entering with INR 41 crore left. This could mean intense bidding wars, with teams like Punjab in a prime position to make bold moves.
Fans can tune in without missing any India vs. Australia Test action, thanks to the time difference with the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. So while cricket lovers in India follow every moment of the Test match, they can also keep up with the auction drama unfolding in Jeddah.
What to Expect Next?
As the clock ticks down to November 24, franchises will soon reveal their final player lists, and strategies are being refined to get the most out of their budgets. With seasoned stars and new faces vying for limited spots, this auction could produce some unexpected choices and surprising alliances.
