Player workload management drives IPL 2025 to limit matches to 74

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 will consist of 74 matches, the same number as the previous three seasons. This is a reduction from the 84 matches initially planned in 2022 when media rights for the 2023-27 cycle were sold. 

The IPL had proposed a varying number of matches in the tender for the new rights cycle, which included 74 matches for 2023 and 2024, 84 matches for 2025 and 2026, and a maximum of 94 matches for the final year in 2027. The decision to keep the match count at 74 for 2025 is primarily aimed at helping Indian international players manage their workload. With India expected to qualify for the World Test Championship final in June 2025 at Lord's, the BCCI wants to ensure players have adequate rest for their preparation.

Although the specific dates for the IPL 2025 season are not yet finalized, it is anticipated to take place between mid-March and the last week of May. 

Jay Shah, the outgoing BCCI secretary, mentioned in a statement, "We have not taken a call on organizing 84 matches in IPL 2025 since we also have to factor the load on the players due to the increase in matches. While it's part of the contract, it's up to the BCCI to decide whether to organize 74 or 84 matches."

In 2022, the IPL solidified its status as one of the richest sporting leagues globally in terms of per-match value, with media rights sold for approximately INR 48,390.5 crore (around USD 6.2 billion). These rights were divided into four packages, covering TV and digital rights in the Indian subcontinent, as well as global media rights.

The total number of matches in a season also affects the "special package" of high-profile games, which includes the tournament opener, weekend evening matches, and the playoffs, including the final. If the season consists of 74 matches, this package will include 18 matches. Should the number of matches increase, the special package would expand accordingly—20 matches for 84 matches and 22 for 94 matches.