Amidst the abuzz Indian Premier League (IPL) fever across the country for this season, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has initiated preparations for the mega auction to take place next year by inviting the owners of all 10 participating franchises to a meeting on Apr 16 in Ahmedabad.

An increase in the purse amount mandated to the franchises in the auction is being speculated to be the centre of discussions.

Franchises have claimed that due to the current purse limit, they are often unable to buy quality players. Moreover, when there is a bidding war for a high-profile player, the purse limit often results in that player being bought by a more balanced franchise.

However, the BCCI has not sent any fixed agenda along with the invitation sent to the franchise owners.

A BCCI official said about the meeting that since the first month of this IPL season is about to be completed, it would be good for the team owners to meet the board in a formal setting.

In addition, there is a possibility of talks on increasing the number of players available for retention.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah, president Roger Binny, and IPL chairman Arun Dhumal are set to be present at the meeting.

Currently, each team is allowed to retain four players before every mega auction, which is held once every three years.

The last mega auction was held in 2022, and the next one is scheduled to take place for IPL 18, which is scheduled for next year. Hence, this meeting plays an important part in the course of the tournament.

BCCI has also swapped schedules of two fixtures in the IPL, where the Kolkata Knight Riders Vs Rajasthan Royals tie has now been affixed on Apr 16, while Gujarat Titans Vs Delhi Capitals will be played on Apr 17.

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