The Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the world’s biggest cricket tournaments, is once again at the center of a major structural discussion. According to recent remarks by IPL chairman Arun Dhumal, the league could undergo significant changes in the coming years, including a possible shift to a two-window format and expansion of the number of matches.

These discussions point toward a potential transformation of the tournament structure starting from the 2028 cycle, aimed at increasing competitiveness, improving scheduling flexibility, and enhancing commercial opportunities.

IPL Expansion Plan: From 74 to 94 Matches

Currently, the IPL features 10 teams competing in a 74-match format. However, under the proposed expansion model, the number of matches could increase to 94 games, allowing for a more balanced home-and-away structure.

At present, teams do not play each other twice due to logistical constraints. Since the expansion to 10 teams, the league format includes:

• Each team playing 7 home matches
• Each team playing 7 away matches
• Selective double matchups instead of full round-robin

The proposed system aims to restore a full round-robin format where every team plays each other twice—once at home and once away.

Possible Two-Window IPL Structure

One of the most notable suggestions under consideration is dividing the IPL into two separate windows within a year. This could involve staging one phase of the tournament in the traditional March–May period and another phase later in the year.

A key proposal under discussion is shifting one phase to the September–October window, which is considered commercially strong due to its proximity to the festive season in India.

According to IPL leadership, this timing could be highly attractive for advertisers, especially as it leads into Diwali, one of the biggest consumption periods in the Indian economy.

Reasons Behind the Scheduling Shift

The potential shift is driven by several factors:

1. Weather Conditions:
Summer conditions in May have become increasingly harsh, making player workload and match conditions more challenging.

2. Scheduling Conflicts:
International bilateral series and global cricket commitments limit the availability of players and reduce flexibility in scheduling.

3. Broadcast and Commercial Value:
Broadcasters believe the September–October window offers strong advertising potential due to festive demand and higher consumer spending.

4. Audience Engagement:
Officials have indicated that they do not currently see audience fatigue despite the tournament’s long duration.

Chairman’s Remarks on Expansion

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal highlighted that increasing the number of matches would require careful coordination with broadcasters, international cricket boards, and stakeholders.

He emphasized that:

• The ideal structure in a 10-team league is nine home and nine away matches
• Logistical constraints currently prevent full implementation
• A larger scheduling window may help accommodate additional games

He also mentioned that discussions will continue during the next media rights cycle, when scheduling flexibility could improve.

Broadcast and Viewership Perspective

Recent media reports had suggested a possible decline in IPL television viewership due to the rise of digital consumption. However, IPL leadership dismissed these claims.

The board stated that overall consumption has actually increased, with regional broadcasters contributing significantly to wider audience reach across India.

This indicates that while viewing patterns are shifting from television to digital platforms, the overall popularity and consumption of IPL content remains strong.

Strategic Importance of IPL Expansion

If implemented, the expansion to 94 matches and a two-window format would represent one of the biggest structural changes in IPL history. It could have several long-term impacts:

• Greater revenue generation from broadcast and sponsorship deals
• Increased opportunities for players and franchises
• Improved competitive balance with full home-and-away fixtures
• Stronger alignment with global cricket scheduling

However, it would also require coordination with international cricket boards, player associations, and broadcasters to avoid scheduling conflicts.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the potential benefits, several challenges remain:

• Managing player workload across multiple windows
• Aligning with international cricket calendars
• Ensuring stadium availability and logistics
• Maintaining audience interest across extended durations

These factors will play a crucial role in determining whether the proposal moves forward.

Conclusion

The IPL is entering a phase of strategic planning that could redefine its future structure. Under the guidance of IPL chairman Arun Dhumal, discussions are underway to potentially expand the league to 94 matches and introduce a two-window format, including a possible September–October phase.

While still at a conceptual stage, the proposal reflects the IPL’s ambition to evolve further as a global sporting product, balancing commercial growth, competitive fairness, and logistical feasibility. If implemented, it could mark one of the most significant transformations in the history of the tournament.

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