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, stating that while demand for more matches exists, the biggest challenge remains the packed international cricket calendar. In a conversation with the Financial Times, Dhumal explained that the IPL’s growth, from the current 74 matches to a potential 84 or even 94-game season, depends largely on finding additional space in the global schedule.Dhumal highlighted that the current Future Tours Programme (FTP), which governs international fixtures, leaves little room for expansion.“For the IPL to move from 74 to 94 matches, we really need a bigger window,” he said.At present, the tournament operates in a limited window between mid-March and the end of May. Extending beyond that period is not feasible due to the onset of the monsoon in parts of India. He also pointed out that increasing the number of matches within the existing window would lead to more double-headers, something broadcasters are not in favour of.“If we try to increase matches in the current window, we will end up having more double-headers. That does not work well for broadcasters. We have to consider their interests as well,” he added.Shift from bilateral cricket could open doorsDhumal suggested that changing trends in global cricket could eventually pave the way for IPL expansion. He noted a declining interest in bilateral series, with several cricket boards launching their own franchise leagues.“There is definitely less interest in some bilateral games. That is why countries are coming up with their own leagues,” he said, citing tournaments such as The Hundred, Big Bash League, ILT20, SA20, and the Caribbean Premier League.According to Dhumal, if this trend continues, cricket boards may opt for fewer bilateral series or ones that are more commercially viable, creating space for tournaments like the IPL to grow.“If this is the trend, then every country will want fewer bilaterals… and then there is scope to enlarge the IPL window,” he explained.Balancing growth and global calendarDespite the IPL’s immense popularity and financial strength, Dhumal stressed the importance of collaboration with other cricket boards.“We are hoping for more discussions with all the countries and colleagues. If that works out, it should work out for everyone,” he said.IPL Chairman Arun Singh Dhumal looks to extend the IPL schedule from 72 to 94 after the cycle of 2027,” It makes sense, and it is already locked until 2027. But when they plan post-2027, we will have discussions. The IPL is not only adding value to India and Indian players; it is adding value to world cricket at large. So all these players would want more.Hopefully, when we decide on the next cycle, we will be able to carve out a bigger window so we can extend it beyond 74,” Arun said.