Jeddah is gearing up to become the focal point for cricket enthusiasts around the globe as the Indian Premier League (IPL) reveals plans to hold its much-anticipated 2025 Mega Auction on November 24-25. This major event is part of the IPL’s strategy to expand its global footprint, following the successful auction in Dubai in 2024. It marks the second year in a row that the auction will occur outside of India.
Traditionally hosted in various Indian cities, the auction will now occur in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This decision was confirmed after earlier speculation suggested that Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, might be the chosen location. This move aligns with the IPL’s broader goal of enhancing its international presence and connecting with global markets, especially as the league continues to gain prominence and influence worldwide.
As of November 4, the registration for players in the 2025 auction has officially closed, with an impressive total of 1,574 players signing up — including 1,165 Indian players and 409 international players. Among those registered, 320 are capped players, while 1,224 are uncapped, with 30 hailing from Associate Nations. These athletes are eager to land lucrative contracts and significantly impact the IPL’s 2025 season.
Choosing Jeddah as the venue is a bold move that underscores the IPL’s commitment to becoming a truly global event. It will be fascinating to see how this city, rich in culture and history, hosts such a prestigious occasion. Fans and analysts are eagerly anticipating the two-day auction, where franchises will vie for top talent in a high-stakes bidding war that has become a defining feature of the IPL’s allure.
The IPL 2025 Mega Auction will also provide teams with a chance to bolster their rosters, with 204 slots still available. Teams will be looking to strengthen their lineups for the upcoming season, and with a high level of competition expected, the excitement is palpable.