Dubai to Host IPL 2025 Mega Auction
Dubai has been identified as a potential venue for the highly anticipated IPL 2025 Mega Auction, which is set to take place in the last week of November. Reports suggest that November 30 is among the preferred dates for the IPL Governing Council to hold the auction, where teams will bid for new players to enhance their squads. This year’s auction promises to be an exciting affair as franchises finalize their retention strategies in preparation for the bidding war.
The previous auction was also conducted in Dubai at the Coca-Cola Arena on December 19, 2024, showcasing the city’s growing prominence as a key location for cricketing events. With ten franchises participating, the atmosphere is expected to be electrifying as team owners compete to secure the best possible playing combinations for the upcoming season. The competitive nature of the auction will set the stage for an intense showdown as teams strategize to build robust squads for the next three seasons.
Retentions and Strategies of Sunrisers Hyderabad
In the lead-up to the auction, several teams have begun confirming their retention lists, with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) being one of the first to finalize their choices. The franchise has opted to retain three key players: captain Pat Cummins, wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen, and all-rounder Abhishek Sharma. Cummins, despite experiencing a pay reduction from INR 18 crore, remains a vital asset for the team. Meanwhile, Klaasen’s salary has seen a staggering increase of 338 percent from the previous year, reflecting his rising value in the franchise.
The decision to retain these players signifies SRH’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge as they prepare for the new season. The franchise’s strategy appears focused on keeping core players who can drive performance while potentially exploring new talents through the auction process. As teams assess their options, SRH’s early announcements could set the tone for how other franchises approach their retentions and acquisitions.
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Changes in Coaching Staff for SRH
In addition to player retention, SRH has experienced a significant change in its coaching staff. Dale Steyn, who served as the pace bowling coach for the 2024 edition, announced on social media that he will not be returning for IPL 2025. However, he confirmed his ongoing association with Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the SA20 league, where he aims to help the team secure a third consecutive title. Steyn expressed his gratitude to SRH for his time as bowling coach, highlighting the importance of the role in his career.
This coaching shift raises questions about how SRH will fill the gap left by Steyn and whether they will seek out a new bowling coach to bring fresh perspectives and strategies to their bowling unit. As the auction approaches, the franchise will need to ensure that its coaching team aligns with its vision for the upcoming season. With a focus on both player retention and coaching stability, SRH aims to position itself as a formidable contender in the IPL landscape.
