BCCI Explores September-October Window for IPL Ahead of Possible 94-Match Expansion. The BCCI is exploring a major scheduling change for the IPL from 2028 onwards. The board is considering shifting the tournament from its traditional March-May slot to a September-October window. The move comes as the BCCI looks to tackle rising summer temperatures across India and prepare for a possible expansion to a 94-match IPL season. Reports suggest the board is discussing the idea with broadcasters and stakeholders before the next media rights cycle begins.
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Why BCCI Wants a New Window?
At present, the IPL features 74 matches with 10 teams. However, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has hinted that the tournament could grow significantly from 2028. The model will have every team playing 18 league matches out of 94 overall (including playoffs). Concerns about severe heat during April/May have recently arisen. Extreme heat has been detrimental to players, fans and the scheduling of some of the games.
The BCCI believes that there is a better chance of an optimal weather window during September-October, and that the festive season surrounding this period would create greater appeal for broadcasters/sponsors who are attempting to maximise their advertising revenues. Another option under discussion is to split the IPL schedule into 2 segments. One segment would overlap the existing March/April window, and another could occur later in the year. This approach is intended to reduce player workloads and to create room for the expanded schedule within the existing international calendar.
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The proposed change also presents its own difficulties. Between September and October (when it rains in multiple cities across India, such as Chennai, Mumbai, and Hyderabad), there are conflicts between the new scheduling window and international cricket calendars, as well as with other T20 leagues across the world. The BCCI anticipates engaging the ICC, broadcasters, teams, and other cricket boards regarding this issue before making a final determination. If this is approved, the new IPL structure would begin the next Future Tours Program cycle in 2028.