BCCI Sets IPL 2026 Mini-Auction Window for Mid-December; Retention Deadline Confirmed
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly finalized the key timeline for the IPL 2026 season, setting the stage for franchises to begin their squad restructuring. The mini-auction is tentatively scheduled to take place between December 13 and 15. This timeline gives teams a clear runway for planning their strategies following an underwhelming performance by several franchises last season.
The most immediate deadline for all ten franchises is November 15, by which date they must submit their final list of retained players. Teams like Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals, who struggled in the previous campaign, are expected to utilize this opportunity to release several high-profile players to boost their auction purse.
In a move that will please domestic fans, the auction is likely to return to India, unlike the last two editions which were held overseas. The upcoming auction is highly anticipated, especially with Australian all-rounder Cameron Green expected to be the most sought-after player after missing the previous auction due to injury.
“The IPL 2026 auction is likely to be held in the second or third week of December, with December 13-15 emerging as the probable window. Additionally, there is no indication, at this stage, of the auction being taken overseas, as was the case in the last two editions.”