Xtra Time Web Desk: Noted British auctioneer Hugh Edmeades is unlikely to conduct the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 auction in Dubai on December 19. According to reports, Mallika Sagar, known for her role as the auctioneer for the Women’s Premier League (WPL), is being considered for the one-day event, pending her availability. Edmeades, who took over from Richard Madley in 2018, collapsed during the mega-auction in Bengaluru in February last year due to “postural hypotension.” Charu Sharma filled in for him temporarily, but Edmeades returned to conduct the final phase amid cheers and a standing ovation.
Despite concerns about Edmeades’ continuation as the auctioneer for the 2023 auction in Kochi, the BCCI decided to retain him for the mini-auction. While Edmeades won’t be part of the action this time, there’s speculation about his potential involvement in the mega auction next year.
Mallika Sagar, an auctioneer at Pundole’s in Mumbai, will resume her role as the WPL auctioneer on December 9. With a major in art history from Bryn Mawr College and starting her career at Christie’s in 2001, Mallika became the first Indian origin woman auctioneer for the Pro Kabaddi League in 2021, showcasing her experience in sports auctions.