In a major shift that could redefine the format of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the 2026 season is expected to do away with the current group division and revert to a single table format, where all 10 franchises face each other in the league stage. If approved by the IPL Governing Council, this change will lead to each team playing 18 league matches—an increase from the current 14—resulting in a longer, more intense tournament.
Back to the classic format
The decision comes after deliberations within the IPL committee, which is said to be strongly leaning towards restoring the traditional league structure where all teams play each other once in a home-and-away format. In IPL 2025, the tournament followed a two-group structure with 70 league matches. The proposed new format could potentially push the total number of group-stage games to 90, extending the tournament by at least three more weeks.
For fans, this promises more thrilling cricket and additional opportunities to watch their favourite stars in action. However, the extended calendar may pose a scheduling challenge for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), particularly in balancing domestic T20 commitments with international tours.
National duty clash looms
One of the biggest concerns is the impact on India’s preparations for their scheduled Test series in England. With the IPL likely to stretch further into the calendar, national players may find themselves with limited time to prepare for the red-ball assignment. Team India selectors and coaches are reportedly assessing the situation closely.
Franchise brand values soar
While the format change is still under discussion, the commercial appeal of the IPL continues to skyrocket. A recent study by global investment bank Houlihan Lokey has pegged the overall valuation of the IPL at a staggering USD 18.5 billion, marking a 12.9% increase year-on-year.
The brand rankings among franchises also saw a significant shake-up. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the 2025 champions, have overtaken Chennai Super Kings (CSK) as the most valuable franchise, with a brand value of USD 269 million—up from USD 227 million last year. Mumbai Indians (MI) have climbed to second place with a valuation of USD 242 million, surpassing CSK, now valued at USD 235 million. Analysts attribute CSK’s drop in part to their disappointing 2025 season, where they finished last in the league table.
Extended format, extended thrill
An 18-match league for each franchise will translate to more matches, more ad revenue, and more eyeballs—further consolidating the IPL’s status as cricket’s most lucrative league. It also means players will have more chances to stake their claim for national selection, and franchises will have more time to recover from poor starts.
However, balancing player workload and international commitments will be a tightrope walk. With several key players likely to be involved in India’s Test campaign, the BCCI will need to create a buffer period or send a separate squad to England.