IPL chairman Arun Dhumal said the league could expand to 94 matches in the future if the tournament is given a larger window, but noted that logistical issues and the need to honor bilateral cricket commitments have prevented the IPL from moving to a full home-and-away format with nine matches each. Speaking to The Hindu ahead of the first Qualifier, Dhumal said the current 10-team structure ideally calls for nine home and nine away games, but the league would need about two additional weeks in the calendar to add more matches.
Dhumal also dismissed reports of a decline in IPL viewership this season, saying the latest data from the broadcaster showed overall audience growth compared with the previous year. He said regional-language channels have played a major role in widening the league’s reach and improving consumption across markets.
On the question of a future IPL window, Dhumal said the league must first discuss options with the broadcaster. One possible slot being considered is September-October, which he described as attractive for advertisers because it comes just before Diwali. He also pointed to rising temperatures in May as a growing concern for the tournament’s current schedule. According to Dhumal, the IPL is examining whether it can find a more suitable window in the calendar, potentially between February and April or later in the year.
His comments highlight the balancing act the IPL faces as it looks to expand commercially while dealing with scheduling constraints, weather conditions, and international cricket obligations. The league’s future structure, timing, and broadcast strategy are expected to be key discussion points as it continues to evaluate growth opportunities.
