BCCI Exploring Saudi Cities as Potential Hosts for Two-Day IPL Mega Auction

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering hosting the upcoming mega auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) in a city within Saudi Arabia. Although no official decision has been made, sources indicate that BCCI officials are contemplating Riyadh and Jeddah as potential locations for this high-profile event.

The search for a suitable venue has been challenging. Finding a location in Saudi Arabia that can accommodate the entire IPL entourage, including franchise delegations and broadcasting teams, has proven difficult. Additionally, reports suggest that costs in Saudi Arabia are significantly higher than in Dubai, where the previous auction took place in December 2023.

London was initially shortlisted as a potential host city, but concerns regarding the cold weather during the last week of November, when the auction is expected, led to its omission. With the IPL’s reputation as one of the world’s wealthiest sports leagues and the BCCI’s financial prowess, finding a suitable location for this prestigious event remains a top priority for the organization.

The BCCI’s commitment to hosting a memorable and successful auction event is evident, especially considering the IPL’s status and the significant financial investments at stake. The auction’s two-day format will provide franchises ample time to strategize their rosters for the upcoming season, further enhancing the excitement surrounding this highly anticipated cricket event.

As the BCCI continues its search for a host city, the focus remains on finding a venue that can accommodate many attendees and provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants. With the IPL’s reputation on the line and the considerable financial stakes involved, the BCCI’s decision on the auction’s location will undoubtedly be closely watched by the global cricket community.

It is important to note that the previous auction for the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) season occurred on December 23, 2022, in Kochi, India. This one-day event allowed franchises to strategize and finalize their rosters for the upcoming season. With the 2024 IPL auction on the horizon, the BCCI aims to build upon the success of the previous auction while addressing any potential areas for improvement.

Dhoni is to meet CSK officials soon.

Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) management maintains that MS Dhoni’s participation in the upcoming IPL season remains uncertain. Key franchise officials are expected to meet with Dhoni in mid-October in Mumbai, where he is likely to communicate his final decision. Dhoni recently returned to India after spending time in the United States last month.

The BCCI has recently introduced a new rule stating that players like Dhoni, who have not played international cricket for more than five years, can be classified as ‘uncapped’ and retained for a price of Rs 4 crore. This represents a significant reduction in Dhoni’s IPL salary, currently at Rs 12 crore. As a result, the decision on Dhoni’s participation and retention will be closely watched by both CSK fans and the cricketing community.

As the discussions around Dhoni’s participation continue, it is worth noting the significant salary reduction he is expected to face if he is retained under the BCCI’s new ‘uncapped player’ rule. According to reports, Dhoni’s salary could drop from Rs 12 crore in the 2024 season to around Rs 4 crore in the 2025 season, marking a 66.67% decrease.

Despite this substantial pay cut, Dhoni’s loyalty to CSK appears unwavering. Reports suggest he is willing to play for his beloved franchise even on a lower salary, highlighting his dedication to the team and the sport.

Fans and the cricketing community will closely watch the mid-October meeting between Dhoni and CSK officials. As the deadline for IPL retentions approaches on October 31, the decisions made in this meeting could have significant implications for Dhoni’s future in the league and the overall dynamics of the CSK team.

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