Indian Premier League (IPL) Chairman Arun Dhumal has revealed that the BCCI is exploring the possibility of creating separate windows for the tournament in the future, with the September-October schedule being one of the options under discussion.
The IPL currently occupies a large portion of the cricket calendar, lasting two months every year. With the league's continued growth in size and popularity, there has been discussion as to whether a longer season may eventually lead to audience fatigue. However, Dhumal said that the BCCI is still evaluating various possibilities and will have detailed discussions with the broadcasters before taking any decision.
Dhumal said the September-October window could be commercially beneficial for the league as it is close to the festive season in India.
Speaking to Sportstar, Dhumal said, “I don't think so. We need to sit down with the broadcasters and get their opinion on whether the tournament can be moved to another window. One suggestion was to have a window in September-October. From an advertiser's point of view this is the best time because it is just before Diwali.”
Dhumal also highlighted the increasing challenge of extreme weather during the latter stages of the tournament, especially in May. According to him, the board is considering a split-window model, where one phase of the IPL can be held between February and April, while the rest of the matches will be held towards the end of the year.
“Weather is another challenge we are facing as May is getting very hot. We are also seeing if we can get some time from February to April and then till the end of the year,” Dhumal said.
The IPL chairman further stressed that given the impact of the tournament on players and cricket boards around the world, any future changes to the schedule will need to align with the international cricket calendar.
He said, “We have to do what is best for the game because the IPL does not just affect the BCCI, it affects all other cricket boards and players playing around the world. We will sit with all our friends from other countries and find out what is best for this tournament and cricket globally.”
Meanwhile, IPL 2026 has entered its business end with the playoffs currently underway. Defeated Royal Challengers Bangalore and secured a place in the finals. Gujarat Titans In Qualifier 1 in Dharamshala on 26 May. Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Rajasthan Royals in the eliminator on May 27 in New Chandigarh.
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