Since its inception in 2008, the Indian Premier League has been nothing short of a revolution in franchise cricket. Over a decade and a half later, and despite several other similar leagues mushrooming around the world, the IPL remains the most sought-after T20 league in the world.
So, the auction, be it the mini-auction like the one being currently held in Dubai for IPL 2024, or the mega-auction like the one likely to happen in 2025, is followed with much interest by players and fans alike.
This year, apart from the fact that the auction is being held outside India for the first time, the auction saw a woman in charge for the first time in the tournament's history. Mallika Sagar took over the gavel from Hugh Edmeades, whose contract was ended by the BCCI.
Who is Mallika Sagar?
Mallika Sagar is a Mumbai-based entrepreneur and art collector. She has majored in art history from Bryn Mawr College in Philadelphia. Her first appointment as an auctioneer was at ‘Christie's’, a British auction house—thus becoming their first Indian woman auctioneer. She has also worked with Pundoles, a Mumbai art gallery.
Why Mallika Sagar?
The major reason for her introduction to IPL was the cancellation of contract between the BCCI and the former host Edmeads. He collapsed during the last sale and was replaced by Charu Sharma. He also had health issues related to postural hypotension.
Sagar, 48, is not a new face in the sports arena. She has been the Pro Kabaddi League host in 2021, and the Women’s Premier League auctioneer.
