From Goa to Jeddah: A Look at All IPL Auction Venues Over the Years

The IPL has journeyed across several cities for its annual auctions since its inception, setting the stage for thrilling seasons with each bid. The most recent auction, held in Dubai in November 2023, marked the league’s first auction in the UAE. Now, the much-anticipated IPL 2025 mega auction is set to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 24 and 25 at the Abady Al Johar Arena, following an initial plan to hold it in Riyadh. Here’s a look at the venues that have hosted the IPL auctions over the years:

The First IPL Auction – A Historic Beginning

The inaugural IPL auction was held in 2008 in Mumbai, where cricketing legends like MS Dhoni and Shane Warne went under the hammer. Dhoni emerged as the most expensive player at USD 1.5 million, joining the Chennai Super Kings. Interestingly, the first player ever auctioned in IPL history was Australia’s legendary leg-spinner, Shane Warne, who later captained Rajasthan Royals to victory in the inaugural season.

Jeddah Gears Up for IPL 2025 Mega Auction

With 1,165 Indian players and 409 overseas players registered, the upcoming auction in Jeddah is expected to be a grand affair, further underscoring IPL’s growing global reach. This will be the first time the auction is held in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the league’s international expansion and increasing appeal beyond traditional cricketing nations.

The IPL auction venues have evolved over the years, with cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and even Dubai hosting the event, each adding a unique flavor to this cricketing spectacle. The 2025 auction in Jeddah marks yet another chapter in IPL’s illustrious history.