Has IPL Chairman hinted at IPL expansion? (screengrab) Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Arun Singh Dhumal has opened up on the possibility of expanding the tournament, saying that while there is demand for more matches, the biggest challenge remains the busy international cricket calendar. Speaking to the Financial Times, Dhumal explained that the growth of the IPL, from the current 74 games to a potential 84 or even 94-game season, is largely dependent on finding more space in the global schedule.Dhumal pointed out that the current Future Tours Program (FTP), which governs international tournaments, leaves little room for expansion.
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IPL 2026: Ajinkya Rahane backs KKR’s young attack after loss “For the IPL to move from 74 to 94 matches, we really need a bigger window,” he said.Currently, the tournament operates in a limited period from mid-March to the end of May. Extension beyond this period is not possible due to onset of monsoon in parts of India. He also pointed out that increasing the number of matches within the current window would lead to more double-headers, which broadcasters are not in favor of.“If we try to increase the number of matches in the current window, we will end up with more double-headers. That does not work well for the broadcasters. We also have to consider their interests,” he added.A shift away from bilateral cricket could open the doorDhumal suggested that changing trends in global cricket could eventually pave the way for IPL expansion. He noticed a declining interest in bilateral series, with several cricket boards starting their own franchise leagues.“There’s definitely less interest in some bilateral games. That’s why countries are coming up with their own leagues,” he said, referring to tournaments like The Hundred, Big Bash League, ILT20, SA20 and Caribbean Premier League.According to Dhumal, if this trend continues, cricket boards may opt for fewer bilateral series or those that are more commercially viable, creating room for tournaments like the IPL to grow.“If this is the trend, then every country will want fewer bilaterals … and then there is room to expand the IPL window,” he explained.Balancing growth and the global calendarDespite the immense popularity and financial power of the IPL, Dhumal emphasized the importance of working with other cricket boards.“We hope for further discussions with all countries and colleagues. If it works out, it should work out for everyone,” he said.IPL chairman Arun Singh Dhumal is going to extend the IPL schedule from 72 to 94 after the 2027 cycle,” It makes sense and it is already locked till 2027. But when they plan beyond 2027, we will discuss it. The IPL does not only add value to India and Indian players; it is an added value to world cricket as a whole. So all these players would like more.Hopefully, when we decide on the next cycle, we will be able to carve out a bigger window to extend it beyond 74,” Arun said.
