By Zainab Shafiq 
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is gearing up to shift the Indian Premier League (IPL) to a more ambitious level. Plans are in place to increase the IPL to a 94-match home-and-away format from the next media rights cycle in 2028, though no new franchises will be included in the tournament in the immediate future.
Since the expansion to a 74-match schedule with the addition of Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants in 2022, the IPL has only continued to increase its popularity. Initially, there had been proposals to shift to 84 matches by 2025, but logistical challenges, such as scheduling congestion and broadcaster concerns regarding double-headers, have shelved the plans for the time being.
IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal affirmed the BCCI’s plans to seriously consider a bigger format where each team plays every other team home and away. But he stressed that the current international cricket calendar, full of bilateral series and ICC events, makes it impossible to expand immediately.
We want to create maximum value for all stakeholders, and a larger IPL window could be part of that future,” Dhumal stated, while adding that the diversion of fan interest towards franchise cricket makes this expansion a realistic option.
Why a 94-match IPL is not possible before 2028?
The 2025 edition of IPL is likely to stretch to nine weeks with 12 double-headers, putting test fans’ stamina to the test. There has been fear about mid-season viewer declines expressed by broadcasters, who have brought attention to the precarious quality and quantity equation. A 94-match format would need a minimum of two more weeks in the calendar — something that poses considerable international cooperation challenge.
Even as investors show interest in opening new franchises, the BCCI is being cautious. “Ten teams are sufficient for the time being,” said Dhumal, reiterating that high-quality competition continues to be a priority.
At the same time, Dhumal was celebrating the competitiveness of the 2025 season and the emergence of new Indian stars. He also said what he wanted personally: to have a first-time winner this season, with Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants all eyeing their first title.
Also, see:
PSL 2025 Live Streaming Details: Where to Watch Pakistan Super League Live?