Who is Mallika Sagar, the auctioner?

Mallika Sagar will lead the IPL 2026 auction on December 16; best known to cricket fans as the composed and authoritative voice behind IPL and WPL auctions. Her career spans fine art, global auction houses, and elite sports leagues, making her journey both rare and influential.

Quick facts

• Born: 1975, Mumbai, India




• Profession: Auctioneer




• Fields: Fine art, sports auctions




• Education: Art history, Bryn Mawr College, USA




• Notable firsts: First Indian woman auctioneer at Christie’s New York; first woman auctioneer in the Pro Kabaddi League




• Major sports auctions: IPL, WPL, Pro Kabaddi League

Fans turn up in droves

Many fans said they took time off work or changed their schedules just to enjoy the atmosphere, describing auction day as just as exciting as a real match. The bright team colours, chants, and quiet debates about possible picks added to the energy as bidding started in Abu Dhabi.

There is a real buzz at the mini auction, as large crowds of fans have come to the venue, many wearing their favourite team jerseys, even though it is a working day here in the UAE.

All eyes on Abu Dhabi

Big names and rebuilding teams set the stage for a high-drama IPL auction in Abu Dhabi today, with international stars, experienced IPL players and Indian talent going under the hammer as franchises address key gaps. Teams are expected to target specific needs — from power hitters and all-rounders to pace and spin — with fierce bidding, surprise picks and smart buys likely to shape the squads for the next season.

Stay tuned to our live coverage of the IPL 2026 mini auction, straight from the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi