Punjab Kings (PBKS) co-owner Ness Wadia has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to expand the Indian Premier League (IPL) window. Since the league’s inception in 2008, there hasn’t been a significant increase in the number of matches played.
Expand the IPL, says Punjab Kings owner
The cricket community understands that March to May is the IPL window. Despite the league growing bigger season by season, the tournament has been nothing more than a 2-month affair. Wadia wants to change this.
The BCCI has already decided to expand the league. Last year, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed that from 2028 onwards, when the next media rights cycle begins, the number of matches will be increased from 74 to 94.
“The BCCI and everyone involved, all the franchises, all of us together, we should look back and be very proud of what has been achieved. Going forward, it would be good to have more matches. We can start with two extra games (for every team),” Wadia told PTI.
Revival of CLT20?
Wadia thinks more can be done to expand the IPL. Over the last few months, many have called for the revival of the Champions League T20 (CLT20). Wadia happens to be one of those. The multi-nation franchise tournament ran from 2009 to 2014, before it collapsed due to poor ratings and waning interest.
Wadia thinks CLT20’s revival can make the IPL more relevant. After the IPL season ends in May, the league loses its relevance until December, when the auction usually takes place. If CLT20 comes back, the June to November window won’t be empty and will keep the audience engaged.
“Also, at some point, we need to look at reviving the Champions League to shorten the gap between the end of the IPL and the auction and keep that excitement alive. And bringing in the international exposure by having auctions in Jeddah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi (next month), that only brings more eyeballs and gets a better connect for IPL as a brand,” Wadia added.
Of course, doing so is easier said than done. To revive the CLT20, you don’t just need the approval of the BCCI but all the cricket boards. One has to wonder whether Pakistan would also be part of it or not, since tensions between India and Pakistan are on the rise. Then comes the window issue. Even if we assume there will be space in the calendar, another problem will arise. That’ll be player availability.
You see, players like Tim David or Trent Boult play for various leagues all over the world. Since multiple teams from different leagues qualify for the tournament, how will you decide which player plays for whom? In that case, the player might choose the franchise that offers more money.
Number of matches in the IPL over the years
| Year | Teams | Matches |
|---|---|---|
| 2008-09 | 8 | 59 |
| 2010 | 8 | 60 |
| 2011 | 10 | 74 |
| 2012-13 | 9 | 76 |
| 2014-21 | 8 | 60 |
| 2022-25 | 10 | 74 |
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