Who Is Mallika Sagar? The Face of IPL 2026 Mini Auction
As the IPL 2026 mini auction draws closer, anticipation is building not only around player signings but also around the person controlling the bidding floor. The auction will be held on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, and once again, Mallika Sagar will take charge as the official auctioneer. So let’s know Who Is Mallika Sagar in IPL Mini Auction 2026.
With 369 players shortlisted and only 77 slots available, franchises are expected to engage in fierce bidding wars. Adding to the excitement, Kolkata Knight Riders will walk in with the largest purse, making this mini auction even more intriguing.
Mallika Sagar’s Early Life and Background
Born in Mumbai in 1975, Mallika Sagar grew up in a business-focused household. Interestingly, her introduction to auctioneering had nothing to do with sports. A book featuring a female auctioneer sparked her curiosity and eventually inspired her career choice.
Her academic journey took her to the United States, where she studied in Connecticut before earning a degree in Art History from Bryn Mawr College, Philadelphia. This educational foundation naturally led her into the fine art auction industry.
Career Breakthrough at Christie’s
In 2001, Mallika began working with Christie’s in New York, one of the most prestigious auction houses in the world. Her rise was swift and historic—by the age of 26, she became the first Indian woman auctioneer at Christie’s, marking a major milestone in her career.
After gaining international experience, she returned to India and worked with renowned institutions, including Pundole’s Art Gallery in Mumbai, further strengthening her reputation in the auctioning world.
Entry Into Sports Auctions
Mallika Sagar made her entry into sports auctions in 2021, when she became the first female auctioneer for the Pro Kabaddi League. Her composed style and command over proceedings quickly earned praise.
She continued to break barriers by handling the Women’s Premier League (WPL) auctions, before stepping into the biggest stage of all—the IPL.
Making History in the IPL
Mallika first grabbed headlines during the IPL 2023 auction, when she took over at short notice after the former auctioneer collapsed mid-event. Her calm handling of the situation won widespread appreciation.
In IPL 2024, she etched her name into history by becoming the first woman to officially conduct an IPL auction. Now, with the IPL 2026 mini auction, Mallika Sagar returns as a familiar and trusted presence, ready to oversee another high-stakes cricketing spectacle.
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