BCCI Secretary Jay Shah has disclosed that the board is still deliberating on increasing the number of Indian Premier League (IPL) matches from the current 74 to 84, starting with the 2025 season. Shah emphasized that the final decision will take into account the players’ workload and the availability of a suitable window for the expanded tournament.
Balancing Players’ Workload and Viewer Engagement
In an interview with the Economic Times, Shah remarked, “We have not yet decided on organizing 84 matches in IPL 2025, as we must consider the impact on players due to the increased number of matches. While 84 matches are part of the contract, the BCCI will determine whether to proceed with 74 or 84 matches.”
The proposed increase in matches is part of the BCCI’s media rights and sponsorship agreements, which also include plans to further expand the tournament to 94 matches by 2027. However, Shah’s comments indicate the board’s cautious approach, given the potential strain on players amidst an already busy international cricket calendar.
Reports suggest that IPL franchises are in favor of an 84-match tournament to enhance revenue, while broadcasters—Star India and Viacom18—prefer sticking to the 74-match format to prevent viewer fatigue and avoid challenges in ad monetization.
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Ongoing Discussions on the IPL 2025 Mega Auction and Player Retention
Shah also touched on the ongoing discussions regarding a mega auction for the 2025 season and the rules surrounding player retention. He noted that the board is working towards a consensus with the franchises. While some teams advocate for a mega auction to strengthen their squads, others prefer retaining their existing core group for continuity.
As the BCCI navigates these critical decisions, the coming months will be vital for shaping the future of the IPL. Striking a balance between the interests of franchises, broadcasters, and player well-being will be essential in determining the league’s direction in the years ahead.