The Indian Premier League 2026 auction will take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16, sources have told Sportstar.

There had been speculation in recent weeks that the mini-auction could return to India, but BCCI officials indicated that logistical considerations prompted the decision to stage it overseas for the third straight time.

Dubai hosted the auction in 2023, followed by Jeddah in Saudi Arabia last year.

Being a mini-auction, it will be a one-day event, where 10 franchises will look to fix their weak links. The franchises have until November 15 to finalise their player retention.

Ahead of the retention, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals have sparked speculation of a high-profile trade involving star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson.

READ | CSK likely to trade Ravindra Jadeja for Sanju Samson from RR

However, it is understood that the Royals have asked for an additional player as part of the deal to release Samson. While CSK’s first preference is a straight swap between the two players, both valued in the Rs. 18-crore bracket, the five-time champion has not ruled out including another player in the trade.

There are indications that Sam Curran could be traded. It is likely that Jadeja could be offered the role of Royals captain, even though the franchise has remained tight-lipped on the issue so far.

Published on Nov 13, 2025