Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Indian Premier League (IPL) could be in for a major expansion, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) considering a 94-match format starting from the 2028 media rights cycle, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal revealed.
BCCI Considers Home-And-Away Format
Currently, the IPL has a 74-match schedule, a format adopted in 2022 when Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) joined the league. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Dhumal confirmed that discussions are ongoing within the BCCI and at the ICC level about expanding the league to allow every team to play against each other in a home-and-away format, which would necessitate 94 games.
Short-Term Expansion Unlikely Due To Scheduling Constraints
Plans to increase the number of matches to 84 for the ongoing season were shelved due to tight international and bilateral cricket commitments. Dhumal indicated that while the landscape of cricket is evolving, an immediate expansion isn’t feasible but remains a strong possibility in the coming years.
No New Teams For Now
Addressing speculation about the addition of new franchises, Dhumal said there are no current plans to introduce more teams beyond the existing ten. He stressed maintaining the tournament’s quality and fan interest as the primary focus.
First-Time Champion Hopes For IPL 2025
Dhumal expressed hope that IPL 2025 could witness a first-time champion. Teams like Delhi Capitals (DC), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), who have yet to lift the trophy, are strong contenders this season.
He added that the ongoing 18th edition of the IPL has seen tremendous fan engagement, both through broadcast numbers and stadium attendance, and expects this growth trajectory to continue.
