The lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) sees participation from the biggest cricketing stars from all over the world and has grown massively ever since its inception. The tournament is usually played with 8 teams on the roster but reports suggested that the BCCI is keen on involving two more teams in its upcoming edition in 2021.
While the news of two more teams coming into the fray surfaced even before the IPL 2020 final, according to a latest Times of India report, the BCCI is on the verge of going ahead with 8 teams only. It is believed that the BCCI is being more realistic in its approach and is likely to avoid a hurried decision with the next chapter just three and a half months away.
Most of the franchises were also against the idea of adding two more teams in IPL 2021. Therefore, going by the latest reports, fresh bids will now be accepted post the 2021 season and a 10-team IPL can be a reality from the 2022 season.
However, the final decision will be taken at the Annual General Meeting scheduled on December 24 in Ahmedabad.
“The BCCI could call for the bids in February or March or April – whenever they think the time is right. The adding of new franchises, say stakeholders, will also add value to the 2021 edition once it becomes a talking point. That’s the line of thought as of now,” those tracking developments told TOI.
If the IPL goes ahead with 8 teams, there will be no mega auction ahead of season 14 which will come as a huge relief both for the BCCI and the existing eight franchises. The BCCI will also have more time to sell the title sponsorship rights – which were sold to Dream 11 ahead of IPL 2013 which was played in UAE.
“Two new franchises will obviously have their own share of value when the media rights tender comes along. Also, two more things: First, the central revenue pool for the 2021 season won’t be diluted, which means the franchises will be happy; Second, once again 60 matches will be held, which means lesser double-headers, so the broadcaster will be happy,” sources told TOI.