Arun Dhumal suggests a 94-match IPL in 2028, with no addition of new teams

The BCCI is seriously considering expanding the IPL season to 94 matches starting from 2028, but has no immediate plans to add new franchises.

The league grew to its current 74-match format in 2022 with the addition of Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). While there were initial discussions about expanding to 84 matches in 2025, scheduling conflicts and broadcasters' reluctance to accommodate more double-headers postponed those plans. Nevertheless, expansion remains under active discussion for the medium term.

The IPL’s window under the Future Tours Programme (FTP) is locked until 2027, running from mid-March to the end of May. However, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told ESPNcricinfo that a full home-and-away season comprising 94 matches is a strong possibility for the next media rights cycle starting in 2028.

"Definitely, that might be an opportunity," Dhumal said. "We have been discussing this internally and at the ICC level. Given the shifting fan interest from bilateral and ICC events to franchise and T20 cricket, we must explore ways to maximize value for stakeholders."

Dhumal stressed that while immediate expansion is challenging due to packed international commitments, the evolving cricket landscape could open up opportunities in the future. "Ideally, a larger window would allow us to go from 74 to 84 or even 94 matches, so every team could play home and away," he added.

While there is strong investor interest, Dhumal confirmed there are no plans to increase the number of franchises anytime soon. "Ten is a good number for now," he said. "Maintaining tournament quality and competitiveness is paramount."

Franchise officials reportedly support a move to 94 matches, though the final decision could hinge on broadcaster willingness, as mid-season viewership drops remain a concern. Extending the tournament would likely require adding two more weeks to the international calendar.

Reflecting on the ongoing 2025 season, Dhumal praised the competitiveness and emergence of young Indian talent. He expressed hope that a first-time champion—such as Delhi Capitals (DC), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS), or Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)—would lift the trophy, marking a special milestone in the IPL’s 18th edition.

"We are thrilled with how the fans have embraced the tournament," Dhumal said. "Broadcast and stadium attendance numbers are phenomenal, and we are confident the IPL will continue to grow stronger."

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