KKR co-owner Juhi Chawla supports Lalit Modi and supports the IPL calendar

Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner Juhi Chawla has sided with Lalit Modi’s proposal to adjust the IPL schedule and start it in January. Chawla suggested that the IPL should be moved from its March-May slot to allow players to compete under better conditions.

Modi, who was at the inception of the league, recently suggested that the BCCI should review the IPL schedule and consider a January launch. Modi believes that the IPL has grown into such a strong sporting and commercial brand that it no longer needs a dedicated window in the international cricket calendar.

He wants the tournament to prioritize sustainable growth, better playing conditions and more value for broadcasters and Indian cricket.

He also pointed to the extreme summer heat during the traditional April-May window, saying an earlier start could improve the experience for players and viewers, while also opening up better broadcasting options.

KKR CO-OWNER JUHI CHAWLA RESPONDS

Responding to Modi’s post on X, Chawla said the IPL has earned the right to influence the cricket calendar. The KKR co-owner questioned the logic of the tournament being held in the Indian summer heat.

Chawla said the January launch will provide a better experience for players and fans and will benefit everyone involved.

“The IPL no longer needs to find its place in the cricket calendar. It has earned the right to influence it. So why play the biggest cricket tournament on the planet in the most brutal heat? And if the calendar is being rethought, why not January instead of April-May?”

“Better conditions. Better cricket. Overall a better experience for everyone! The IPL has evolved. Maybe it should have a calendar now too!” read the statement from Chawla on X. (Credit: Juhi Chawla X)

While a major shift in the calendar has not been announced, the BCCI has is considering moving the start of the IPL a bit earlier to deal with weather conditions.

“This year, the IPL started around March 29 (28) and ended on May 31,” Saikia told PTI. “The only thing we are discussing is that during the fag end of the tournament after May 15… there is concern that it will start raining or that the pre-monsoon season will start.

“On the other hand, there is hot weather, which is not very favorable for either the players or the crowds.

“So there is a discussion in the BCCI as well as in our IPL Governing Council as to whether we can start the tournament a little earlier than the end of March.”

It remains to be seen whether the BCCI will continue with this change from next year.

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