IPL Could Move Out of Summer – Why September-October Is on the Table
The BCCI is considering a major change to the Indian Premier League calendar: moving the tournament from its long-standing March-May slot to September-October.
Since 2008, the IPL has been played in late winter and spring. But growing concerns about player welfare and extreme May temperatures have prompted officials to explore a later window. IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal told The Sportstar that while no decision is imminent, the board is looking at long-term options as the league expands.
Why a shift makes sense
- Heat and player safety: May’s intense heat and humidity have taken a visible toll on players. There are rising incidents of mid-match exhaustion, cramps and dehydration that can lead to avoidable injuries.
- Recovery time: The international schedule leaves top players with little downtime before IPL begins. Moving the tournament would give athletes a longer recovery period after bilateral series and ICC events.
- Commercial timing: A September-October slot lines up with the lead-up to Diwali, a lucrative period for advertisers. That timing could boost sponsorship and broadcaster revenues.
Global ripple effects
The IPL now includes 74 matches across ten franchises and depends on international stars. Any permanent move would affect other cricket boards and domestic leagues, including Cricket Australia, ECB and the Pakistan Super League. Dhumal stressed the need for collaboration, saying the BCCI will work with global partners to find a calendar that works for the IPL and world cricket.
Next steps
The board plans to consult broadcasters and other stakeholders, especially as it prepares to expand the tournament from 2028. A September-October window has been floated in those discussions and will be reviewed during future tender negotiations and scheduling talks.
