The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering Saudi Arabian cities, Riyadh and Jeddah, as the prime contenders to host the highly anticipated IPL 2024 mega auction. Although the BCCI has not yet made an official announcement, Riyadh seems to be the frontrunner. This marks a significant step for the IPL, taking its pivotal auction event beyond India’s borders.
Cricbuzz has reported that the mega auction is likely to be held on November 24 and 25 in Saudi Arabia. An official statement from the BCCI is expected to confirm the dates and location in the coming days. The BCCI explored various international venues before zeroing in on Saudi Arabia, including cities like London, Dubai, Singapore, and Vienna. However, Riyadh emerged as the most suitable option for this high-profile, two-day auction event.
In preparation for the event, some BCCI officials have already visited Saudi Arabia to assess logistical and organizational aspects. Another group of BCCI representatives is expected to arrive in the Gulf nation on October 21, further cementing the likelihood of Saudi Arabia hosting the auction.
One key challenge facing the BCCI is a potential scheduling conflict with the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy between Australia and India, which is slated to take place in Perth from November 22 to 26. Since Disney Star holds the broadcasting rights for both the auction and the Test series, there were initial concerns about a clash. However, due to the time zone difference between India and Australia, it seems that both events can coexist without overlapping. The auction is expected to be scheduled in the afternoon based on Indian Standard Time (IST), while the Perth Test will begin in the early hours according to IST.
Meanwhile, the IPL franchises have expressed a preference for hosting the auction within India. With that option ruled out, they are pushing the BCCI to swiftly finalize the Saudi venue to allow for proper travel arrangements for their representatives. As the event date approaches, teams are also working towards meeting the deadline for submitting their player retention lists, which is set for 5 PM on October 31. This deadline is crucial for the teams to finalize their strategies ahead of the auction.
This move to potentially hold the IPL mega auction in Saudi Arabia underscores the league’s growing global appeal and the BCCI’s vision of expanding its footprint internationally. If confirmed, it will be a historic first for the IPL, marking a new chapter in its already illustrious journey.
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