The IPL auction may be held overseas once again, as the BCCI is considering multiple Gulf destinations for the event. Although not official yet, all 10 franchises have been informally notified about the potential shift, with Abu Dhabi emerging as the frontrunner. Other Middle Eastern countries like Oman and Qatar are also being considered. The decision to move the auction overseas for the third consecutive year is due to challenges in finding a suitable venue in India, as the proposed window overlaps with the country’s busy festival and wedding season. The auction is scheduled for mid-December, and the BCCI is expected to announce the official venue before November 15, the deadline for franchises to submit their retention and release lists for IPL 2026. There is speculation surrounding player movements, particularly with regards to Sanju Samson, who has reportedly expressed a desire to be released or traded by the Rajasthan Royals. The franchise owner has reached out to other teams for possible trade deals, with Chennai Super Kings being a potential suitor for Samson. However, no deal has been finalized yet.
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