Revealed: Why are IPL auctions not taking place in India anymore?

The last three Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions took place in Dubai, Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi respectively.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) auction 2026 was held on Tuesday in Abu Dhabi as all ten teams bid for their favourite players. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pulled off the biggest purchase as they signed Australian star Cameron Green for INR 25.2 Crores. For the third year in succession IPL auction was held outside India.

The last time the event was held at home was in 2023 when the Auctions were held in Kochi. Since 2024, IPL auctions have been held in the middle east with Dubai and Jeddah playing host before the 2026 auction was held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.

Arun Dhumal, who is the IPL chairman recently spoke to Sportstar, where he revelaed why IPL auctions were held away from home. Dhumal in chat with the magazine said IPL auctions are held at a time when the wedding seasons are full swing in India. This creates a huge problem for BCCI as far finding venues are concerned.

IPL chairman reveals reason behind auction’s international shift

Speaking to Sportstar, Arun Dhumal said:

“At times it is very difficult for the BCCI to organise a venue given the marriage season is in full flow at this time of the year. You are aware that during this period, a lot of bilateral matches are played in India, so we had to fix the schedule accordingly.

“We tried hard to look for a venue in India, but unfortunately, with the number of hotel rooms that were required, we were not able to manage. We had the WPL auction in India. We would have loved to have the IPL auction here as well. But the IPL is a global league now. It is the second-most valuable league in the world.”

Huge demand for IPL auctions overseas – Arun Dhumal

Unlike the times when the auctions were held in India, the move abroad has also seen fan participation take place. Fans in attendance get to cheer for their favourite teams and encourage them after player bidding is done.

Mr. Arun Dhumal in his chat with Sportstar also mentioned that IPL auctions have found a lot of takers internationally.

“It doesn’t matter whether we have it in India or overseas because we have to look at the convenience and comfort of all the franchise owners and stakeholders” he said.

“There is also a lot of demand from these countries that we conduct at least the auction in their country. It is our responsibility to grow cricket across the globe. In that direction, this is a good step, as it gives them an opportunity to host the IPL auction.”

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