BCCI Considers 94-Match Home-and-Away IPL by 2028

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is seriously considering a shift to a home-and-away format for the Indian Premier League (IPL), potentially expanding the season to 94 matches starting in 2028, as part of the next media rights cycle. Currently, the IPL follows a 74-match format, which has been in place since Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) joined the league in 2022.

According to IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal, the BCCI is evaluating this possibility. He said, "We’ve been having discussions internally within BCCI and with the ICC. Given the growing fan interest in franchise and T20 cricket, as well as in bilateral and ICC events, we are exploring how we can deliver the maximum value for all stakeholders. Ideally, we aim to extend the format from 74 matches to 84 or 94, which would allow each team to play both home and away."

Though there was initial consideration to increase the number of matches to 84 for the ongoing season, this idea was postponed due to scheduling conflicts with international fixtures. Dhumal elaborated, "With the current cricket calendar, including bilateral tours and ICC events, increasing the number of matches from 74 to 84 was not feasible this time. However, as the cricket landscape evolves, we may look at it more seriously in the future."

Dhumal also confirmed that there are no immediate plans to introduce more IPL teams. "Currently, ten teams is the ideal number. Our primary focus is on maintaining the quality of cricket and ensuring the tournament's appeal to fans. We don’t see the need to add more teams in the short term, but we will reassess as the situation changes."

As for the tournament itself, Dhumal expressed his excitement for the possibility of a new champion. He noted that teams like Delhi Capitals (DC), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are all strong contenders and could break the streak of previous winners, adding fresh excitement to the IPL.

"The tournament's growth has been phenomenal, and we're thrilled with the support from our fans. The viewership numbers, both on television and in stadiums, continue to break records. As we enter the 18th edition, we’re confident it will only continue to grow."

Concluding on a hopeful note, Dhumal added, "It would be fantastic if one of the teams that has never won the IPL, like DC, PBKS, or RCB, lifts the trophy this year. A new champion would be a great moment for the league."