IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal has said that the BCCI is seriously considering expanding the league to a 94-match home-and-away format from the next media rights cycle, which will begin in 2028. Since the introduction of Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in 2022, the IPL currently operates with a 74-match format.
Dhumal stated, “Certainly, it could be an opportunity. We are discussing it within the ICC and also internally within the BCCI. Considering how fan interest is shifting towards franchise and T20 cricket in relation to bilateral series and ICC events, we need to discuss this more seriously and see how we can maximize value for all stakeholders of the game.”
The Tournament Could Expand to 94 Matches
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo on Monday, Dhumal said, “Ideally, we want a bigger window, maybe expanding from 74 to 84 or 94 matches, so that every team gets to play against every other team both home and away, which would require 94 matches.”
There had been discussions to increase the number of matches to 84 for the current season, but it was delayed due to the busy cricketing schedule.
He further said, “Given our commitments and timelines with bilateral cricket and ICC events, it may not be feasible in the short term. However, considering how the landscape is evolving, we may consider and adopt this option in the future.”
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Plan to Expand to 84 Matches This Year Was Dropped
Dhumal added, “A lot of cricket has already been played. We returned from a Test series in Australia, played the Champions Trophy, and then we also have the IPL. So, it was decided that moving from 74 to 84 matches in 2025 was not suitable. But whenever we feel the time is right, we will take that decision.”
He also revealed that there are currently no plans to introduce new IPL teams.
“For now, ten teams are a good number,” he said. “The interest in the tournament and the quality of cricket we play are most important. I don’t see any new teams being added in the short term. Going forward, we will make decisions based on how the overall scenario evolves.”
