In a notable development, reports suggest that the BCCI has shortlisted two cities in Saudi Arabia for the much-anticipated IPL 2025 mega-auction.
According to sources, the BCCI has identified Riyadh and Jeddah as potential hosts for the auction, which is expected to take place in the last week of November 2024. The report also indicates that while the BCCI considered various Middle Eastern venues, it faced challenges in securing a suitable location.
Dubai, which hosted the IPL auction in 2023, remains an option, though it is not the preferred choice this time. It is also reported that London was considered but ultimately ruled out due to unfavorable weather conditions in the UK during that period.
BCCI and IPL officials are now focused on finding a venue capable of hosting the two-day event and accommodating the entire IPL entourage, including delegations from all 10 franchises and a sizable team from two broadcasters, Jio and Disney Star.
The BCCI recently announced new policies for the IPL 2025 mega-auction, including an increase in player retentions from four to six and the reintroduction of the Right to Match (RTM) option with modifications. However, the new RTM rule has sparked controversy, as franchise owners have expressed dissatisfaction and reportedly filed complaints against it.
Previously, once the RTM paddle was raised during the auction, the player would automatically go to that team. Under the revised rule, however, the opposing bidder can continue raising the amount even after the RTM is activated, which has led to opposition from the franchises.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
