The preparations for the IPL 2026 mini auction have gathered pace, with a new report revealing the likely date and venue for the much-awaited event.

According to a report by Cricbuzz, the auction is scheduled to take place on December 16 at the ITC Grand Goa Hotel, a luxury five-star property in Goa.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly shared preliminary details with all IPL franchises through a WhatsApp message sent by its logistics team on Saturday.

However, the board has not yet issued an official email or formal announcement confirming the date and venue. The final schedule will be confirmed once the BCCI sends an official communication to the franchises.

A briefing session for team owners and franchise officials is also expected to take place on December 15, a day before the auction. The meeting is likely to help franchises prepare for the auction and coordinate their plans ahead of the event.

With teams needing to finalise travel arrangements, accommodation and other logistical requirements, the early communication is expected to help them prepare well in advance.

However, the date and venue should be treated as provisional until the BCCI sends its official confirmation. Any changes to the schedule will depend on the board’s final communication.

The mini auction will be an important opportunity for franchises to address gaps in their squads and strengthen their combinations ahead of IPL 2026.

The two events could make December 16 a busy day for Indian cricket, with fans following both the international fixture and the franchise auction.

While the India vs Sri Lanka match will draw attention on the field, IPL franchises will be focused on identifying players who can strengthen their squads for the upcoming season.

For now, all eyes are on the BCCI’s official announcement, which will confirm whether December 16 in Goa is indeed the final date and venue for the IPL 2026 mini auction.