New Delhi, India

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction is set to take place in Riyadh, in Saudi Arabia, on Nov 24-25, as per reports. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), is, thus, set to host the IPL auction outside India for the second time in a row, and Riyadh is being considered for the two-day mega event. The previous auction took place in Dubai. A final decision, along with dates, is expected to be out soon.

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However, a potential issue before the BCCI authorities is that the proposed dates coincide with India's five-match Test series opener versus Australia, in Perth. The first Test begins on Nov 22. Notably, the match will be shown on Disney Star, i.e. the official broadcasters of the cash-rich league. Thus, all parties want to avoid any overlap.

Although due to the time difference with Australia, there is unlikely to be any clash. The auction is expected to commence in the afternoon, as per Indian Standard Time (IST). 

Also read: Explained: India’s chances of qualifying for WTC Final after losing Bengaluru Test to New Zealand

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Apart from Riyadh, the Indian cricket board have also narrowed down Jeddah as another option but Riyadh is likely to act as the host city for the event.

Earlier, it was being reported that BCCI have explored Dubai, Singapore and London as options. At one stage, even Vienna was being considered, however, Saudi Arabia is believed to have been finalised. 

Before the auction, all the ten franchises have to submit their respective player retention lists, with Oct 31 evening (by 5 PM, IST) being the deadline. All eyes are on the retention lists as some big players might be released and can go under the hammer. Moreover, MS Dhoni's IPL future will also become clear.