Saudi Arabia Makes a Big Splash in Cricket with IPL Auction
Saudi Arabia is hosting the Indian Premier League (IPL) player auction for the first time, marking a significant foray into the world of cricket. This two-day event, beginning on November 24, is a partnership between the IPL and Saudi Arabia, which aims to expand its global reach and improve its image through sports ¹.
The kingdom's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has been backing extravagant sports investments, including hosting the football World Cup in 2034, to diversify its oil-rich economy. However, critics have accused Saudi Arabia of "sportswashing" due to its human rights record and the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 ¹.
Despite the controversy, the IPL auction is expected to generate significant interest, with 574 players up for grabs, including top names like Rishabh Pant, James Anderson, and Rachin Ravindra. The auction will also feature promising youngsters looking to make a name for themselves in the cricket world ¹.
Saudi Arabia's cricket federation is also working to boost the sport's popularity among Saudis, launching a program to introduce cricket in schools. The federation's head coach, Kabir Khan, noted that there is a general perception that cricket is a "street game," and they aim to change that perception ¹.
The IPL has generated billions in revenue since its inception in 2008, and this auction is expected to break records. Australian pacer Mitchell Starc smashed auction records last time, signing with Kolkata Knight Riders for $2.98 million. With an incremental rise in the tournament's salary cap, this year's auction is likely to see even higher prices ¹.
Overall, Saudi Arabia's foray into cricket with the IPL auction is a significant move, marking a new chapter in the kingdom's sports investments. While controversy surrounds the kingdom's human rights record, the auction is expected to generate excitement and break records in the cricket world.
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