IPL 2025 to Feature 84 Matches? BCCI Secretary Jay Shah Clarifies: ‘It’s in the Contract, But…’

The IPL remains divided over the relevance of the mega auction. Teams with strong squads argue it should be discontinued, while those with weaker teams favor its continuation. Discussions are ongoing, and a decision is expected soon. Ultimately, the BCCI will make the final call, but Secretary Jay Shah emphasized that both majority and minority opinions will be given equal consideration.

“We’ve heard all the franchises’ views,” Shah told Cricbuzz. “For us, a minority view is as important as the majority opinion. Ultimately, the BCCI office-bearers will decide. Those with a strong team believe the big auction is unnecessary, while those with a weaker side want it to continue.” Shah also hinted that the mega auction might not be entirely scrapped, noting, “Continuity is as important as shuffling for the growth of the game.”

Another significant topic under discussion is increasing the number of matches from 74 to 84 in the next season. With the IPL expanding from eight to ten teams, the number of matches has not risen proportionally (based on the home-and-away format, there should ideally be 94 matches, including playoffs and the final). However, considering the packed international calendar, player workload, and the limited window, this could present a challenge.

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“Nothing is confirmed,” Shah stated. “We will collectively decide. We have to consider the players’ workload and the available window. It’s in the contract, but the final decision rests with the BCCI.”

Additionally, the BCCI is considering adding a sixth team to the Women’s Premier League, depending on the availability of players. Meanwhile, the BCCI has also suggested that the ICC create a dedicated fund for Test cricket, given the high costs of hosting Test matches.

“I am a member of the ICC’s Finance and Commercial Affairs (F&CA) committee, and I have proposed a dedicated fund for Test cricket. Hosting Test matches is very expensive. If the ICC Board approves, we can move forward with this initiative. We are working on creating a special fund for Test cricket,” Shah added.