The much-anticipated IPL Auction for Season 18 is expected to take place in November, likely during the third or fourth weekend of the month. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed IPL franchises that the auction is likely to be held overseas, with the Middle East being the most probable location.
Sources suggest that cities like Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi are in consideration for the event, while Saudi Arabia has also shown interest in hosting the auction. However, no final decision on the venue has been made yet.
IPL franchises are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the retention rules, which are expected to be revealed by the end of this month. Teams will have until mid-November to finalize their retentions. Some franchise officials have expressed concerns over the delay in receiving these guidelines, as it may leave them with limited time to prepare for the auction.
In addition, several former Indian coaches who worked with Rahul Dravid are rumored to be joining various IPL franchises. Vikram Rathour is expected to join Rajasthan Royals, while Paras Mhambrey is also in talks with a franchise. Munaf Patel, a former India pacer and 2011 World Cup winner, is likely to take up an IPL coaching role this season.
