In 2022, changes in the Indian Premier League (IPL) included new teams like Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), which increased the number of matches to 74. Although the BCCI was thinking of increasing that number to 84 till 2025, a few hiccups with scheduling and complaints from broadcasters that too many double-header games were ruining the value have delayed that. Presently they are not looking forward to adding any more teams.
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The IPL schedule for the next two seasons is tentatively planned from mid-March to the end of May. The BCCI is open to discuss a 94-match format for the next set of media rights in 2028, said IPL chairman Arun Dhumal. “That might be an option. We’re talking about it both in the ICC and within BCCI. As fans’ interests shift with bilateral and ICC events as well as T20 leagues, we need to find ways to create value for everyone involved.”
Dhumal added that they would like to have more matches, but the 18th edition of the IPL could not have more matches due to scheduling conflicts.” We’d like a bigger window to allow every team to play home and away, which would require 94 matches. But with all the commitments in international cricket, that’s tough right now.”
“There’s a lot of cricket happening already. We just came back from an Australia Test series and had the Champions Trophy before this IPL. So, going from 74 to 84 just didn’t make sense. We’ll reevaluate when the timing is better.”
Discussions regarding IPL scheduling would happen next year when boards come together to discuss the future fixtures. Franchise owners have mentioned they would like a 94-match season, but it all would depend on broadcaster interest after the Reliance-Disney merger in India.
