IPL Mega Auction Scheduled for Riyadh Amid IND vs AUS Test Series

As the deadline for player retention looms, the Indian Premier League (IPL) is making headlines once again. All franchises must submit their retention lists by 5 PM on October 31, 2024. This year, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opted for an international venue for the mega auction, which is set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. While the BCCI has yet to make an official announcement, reliable sources have informed Hindustan Times that the auction is planned for November 24 and 25.

A source familiar with the developments stated, "We are indeed considering Riyadh for the mega auction, which will span two days. A team is currently in Riyadh conducting site verification and scouting hotels. Once arrangements are finalized, we will make a formal announcement."

The source also mentioned that Abu Dhabi is being considered as a backup location. If the auction proceeds as scheduled, it will coincide with India's first Test match against Australia, taking place in Perth from November 22 to 26. The auction will occur on the third and fourth days of the Test match. However, the significant time difference between Saudi Arabia and Australia means that the auction proceedings will conclude in India by around 3:20 PM IST on those days.

As anticipation builds for both the IPL auction and the Test series, cricket fans are eager to see how these events unfold.