The IPL 2025 is set to begin on March 14, 2025, and will run until May 25, 2025. This marks a significant shift in the planning process, as the BCCI has released the tournament dates much earlier than usual, providing clarity to franchises and international boards well in advance.
Key details about IPL 2025:
- Number of Teams: 10
- Matches: 74, maintaining the same count as the last three seasons.
- Timelines: Sent to all franchises for better scheduling and planning.
Changes in match counts:
While media rights sold in 2022 initially indicated that 84 matches would be played from 2025, this has been postponed. The same 74-match format will continue in 2025 and 2026, with an expansion to 94 matches planned for the 2027 season.
Player availability:
All major cricketing nations, including England, Australia, and South Africa, have confirmed player availability for the upcoming IPL seasons:
- Australian players have been granted NOCs for the 2025 season.
- In 2026, Australian players involved in an ODI series against Pakistan (ending March 18) will join immediately afterward.
- In 2027, Australian players will join after participating in a historic Test match against England celebrating the 150th anniversary of Test cricket.
The early announcement of dates underscores the IPL’s growing stature and its importance in global cricketing calendars. The tournament promises to be a thrilling spectacle for fans and franchises alike.