Indian Cricket Board looking to increase the number of games in the Indian T20 League – Reports

The BCCI is reportedly looking to increase the number of matches in the Indian T20 League after two to three years. This year, with 10 teams having played in the tournament, a total of 74 games including the playoffs and the final were played. Previously, 60 games were played when eight teams competed for the title. From the next season, which will also mark the start of the new cycle, the number of games will remain at 74.

The tournament will follow the same suit in the 2024 edition. In the seasons 2025 and 2026, the number of games will increase to 84. Currently, the teams are divided into two virtual groups of five each. Teams from the same group played each other twice while they play once against four teams from other groups. However, the only exception was made for Chennai and Mumbai, who were in different groups.

They were the only teams to play each other twice despite being in the rival groups. Meanwhile, in the 2027 season, the number of matches will increase to 94, which is possible only when teams play each other twice. Also, not to forget, the media right for the next five-year cycle 2023-27 is up for grabs for various TV channels and online streaming platforms as reported by Cricbuzz.

The bidders have reportedly been notified about the increase in the number of games. It will be interesting to see which formula the board and the tournament governing council will come up to play 84 games. One method can be dividing the teams into two group like it happened this year. However, they can play two teams from rivals groups twice and once against three teams in addition to playing twice against the teams from their groups.

On the other hand, the parties interested in picking the media rights for the next five seasons are Sky Sports from UK, Supersport from South Africa, current holders from India, Star Sports, former holders Sony Pictures India Private Limited etc.