CricBengal.com | Sports Desk
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering another expansion of the Indian Premier League, with at least two new franchises potentially joining the competition from the 2028 season.
According to a report by Mint, Pune and Vadodara have emerged as possible destinations for the proposed teams. However, discussions remain at an early stage, and neither the cities nor the number of new franchises has been officially confirmed.
If the proposal goes ahead, the IPL could expand from its current 10-team structure to a 12-team competition.
Expansion Linked to the 2028 Media Rights Cycle
The proposed expansion is being considered around the IPL’s next media rights cycle, which is expected to cover the 2028–2032 period.
Adding new franchises would increase the number of matches and could have a significant impact on the tournament schedule, broadcasting arrangements and commercial structure.
The Mint report, citing people familiar with the discussions, said each new franchise could be valued at more than US$1 billion. Potential investors are reportedly evaluating opportunities, including European private equity firm Permira, West Asian sovereign wealth funds, Asian state-backed investment entities, major Indian business groups and US-based family offices.
Why Pune and Vadodara Are Being Considered
Pune has a history with the IPL. The city was represented by Sahara Group-owned Pune Warriors India from 2011 to 2013. The franchise subsequently withdrew from the competition following financial disagreements with the BCCI over franchise fees.
Pune returned to the IPL in 2016 with Rising Pune Supergiant, which competed for two seasons while Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended. The team reached the 2017 final but lost to Mumbai Indians by one run.
Vadodara is another city reportedly under consideration. Located around 110 kilometres from Ahmedabad, it could become another major cricketing centre in Gujarat as the state looks to strengthen its sporting infrastructure.
IPL’s Last Major Expansion Came in 2022
The IPL began in 2008 with eight teams. Its structure has changed several times since then, with franchises joining and leaving the competition.
The most recent major expansion took place ahead of the 2022 season, when Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans joined the league, increasing the number of teams from eight to 10.
The RPSG Group acquired the Lucknow franchise, while CVC Capital Partners secured the Ahmedabad-based franchise that became Gujarat Titans.
Rising Franchise Valuations Attract Investors
Recent ownership transactions have further highlighted the IPL’s growing commercial value.
According to media reports, Royal Challengers Bengaluru was involved in an ownership transaction at a valuation of approximately US$1.78 billion. Rajasthan Royals was also part of a major ownership deal at a reported valuation of around US$1.65 billion.
These transactions have strengthened expectations that any new IPL franchise could attract substantial investment. However, no formal bidding process or ownership details for the proposed teams have been announced.
Commercial and Operational Challenges Remain
Expanding the IPL would involve more than selecting cities and investors. The BCCI would also need to consider broadcasting demand, the availability of Indian players and the impact of additional matches on the tournament calendar.
The current 2023–2027 media rights cycle was secured for approximately US$6.2 billion. An expanded competition would mean more matches and potentially higher broadcasting costs, making the interest of media partners a key factor.
The availability of enough quality Indian players to support additional competitive teams is another important consideration.
CricBengal Analysis
A 12-team IPL could create new commercial opportunities and bring the tournament to additional cities. It could also expand the league’s audience and investment base.
However, more teams would mean a longer schedule, additional player workload and greater demands on broadcasting partners. The BCCI will need to balance commercial growth with the sporting quality and sustainability of the competition.
For now, the proposed expansion remains under discussion. Pune and Vadodara are among the cities being considered, but the final decision rests with the BCCI.
Sources: Mint
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