‘Less interest in bilateral series’: Does Arun Dhumal hint at expanding IPL?

Has the IPL Chairman hinted at IPL expansion? (Screenshot)

Indian Premier League (intense pulsed lightChairman Arun Singh Dhumal spoke about the possibility of expanding the tournament, saying that while there is a demand for more games, the biggest challenge remains the congested international cricket schedule. In an interview with the Financial Times, Dhumal explained that the growth of the IPL, from the current 74 games to a potential 84 or even 94 games, will largely depend on finding extra space in the global schedule.Dhumal stressed that the Future Tourism Program (FTP), which currently manages international events, leaves little room for expansion.“In order to increase the IPL from 74 to 94 games, we do need a bigger window,” he said.The competition currently runs for a limited time from mid-March to the end of May. Due to the onset of monsoon in parts of India, extending this period is not feasible. He also noted that increasing the number of games within the existing window would result in more doubleheaders, something broadcasters disapprove of.“If we try to add games in the current window, we will end up with more double-headers. That won’t work out well for the broadcasters. We have to look at their interests as well,” he added.Shift in bilateral cricket could open doorsDhumal said changing trends in global cricket could eventually pave the way for IPL expansion. He noted that interest in bilateral series is declining with some cricket boards launching their own franchise leagues.“There will definitely be less interest in some of the bilateral competitions. That’s why countries are setting up their own leagues,” he said, naming tournaments such as the Hundred, Big Bash League, ILT20, SA20 and Caribbean Premier League.Dhumal said if the trend continues, the cricket board may opt to reduce bilateral series or more commercially viable series to create space for events like the IPL to grow.“If this is the trend, then every country will want to reduce bilateral trade…then there will be room to expand the IPL window,” he explained.Balancing growth and the global calendarDespite the IPL’s huge popularity and deep pockets, Dhumal stressed the importance of collaboration with other cricket boards.“We hope to have more discussions with all countries and colleagues. If successful, it should be good for everyone,” he said.IPL chairman Arun Singh Dhumal wants to extend the IPL schedule from 72 to 94 games after the 2027 cycle, “It makes sense and has been locked in till 2027. But when they plan beyond 2027, we will have discussions.” The IPL is not just adding value to India and Indian players; it is adding value to world cricket as a whole. So all these players want more.Hopefully when we decide on the next cycle we can open up a bigger window so we can expand it beyond 74,” Allen said.