The BCCI is reportedly planning to expand the scope of the IPL. The idea is to turn the league into a year-round property, similar to the NBA or the NFL.
According to sources, the board plans to consult all ten IPL franchises. Discussions will also include JioHotstar to build pre-season engagement and sustained fan interest throughout the year.
At present, the IPL runs for around two months annually. During this period, top players from across the world represent their franchises with the sole objective of winning the trophy.
Once the season ends, attention shifts back to national cricket. IPL-related conversations during the rest of the year are largely limited to fan-made social media content and online discussions.
Leagues like the NBA and NFL operate differently. They maintain relevance year-round through off-season events, digital content, and collaborations with creators, ensuring fans remain engaged even when matches are not being played.
While this model has worked well in the United States, the Indian audience appears unconvinced. Many fans are mocking the idea, suggesting platforms like JioHotstar may push low-quality creator reels under the label of pre-season buzz.
Some are also linking this move to financial pressure on the BCCI. They point to restrictions and bans on online gaming platforms such as Dream11 as a possible reason behind the board exploring new revenue-driven strategies.
With no official confirmation so far, it remains to be seen whether the IPL will truly evolve into a year-long spectacle in the coming seasons.
