IPL likely to be scrapped from March-May window, confirms Arun Dhumal – IPL Set for Major Shift: March-May Window Under Review, Says Arun Dhumal
IPL May Be Shifted Out of Traditional March-May Window
The Indian Premier League is on the brink of its most significant scheduling overhaul in nearly two decades. As rising temperatures and player workloads dominate conversations, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal has confirmed that the BCCI is actively considering moving the tournament out of its long-standing March-May window.
Why the Change?
For years, the IPL has been a staple of India’s spring and early summer months. But the increasingly harsh climate during April and May — especially in key host cities — has raised serious concerns about player safety, fan comfort, and overall playing conditions.
Dhumal highlighted that extreme heat and dehydration are becoming regular issues for cricketers, even during evening matches. Training sessions, travel, and recovery are also impacted, leading to increased fatigue over a packed 74-match season.
Exploring the September-October Window
One of the most viable alternatives being discussed is shifting the IPL to September and October. This period offers more favorable weather across much of India and aligns with a critical time for advertisers.
“That is the best time from an advertiser’s point of view because it’s just before Diwali,” Dhumal revealed in a recent interview with Sportstar. The festive season is peak spending time in India, and brands could be willing to pay premium rates for visibility during a Diwali-adjacent tournament.
Business and Broadcast Considerations
While health and player welfare are primary drivers, financial incentives are also a major factor. A September-October schedule could unlock larger sponsorship deals and higher advertising revenues, boosting the IPL’s already massive commercial footprint.
However, the BCCI can’t make this decision in isolation. As Dhumal noted, the board will need to consult with broadcast partners and navigate international cricket commitments, especially with overseas players who feature heavily in franchise squads.
Long-Term Expansion Plans
The potential schedule shift also ties into BCCI’s long-term vision for the IPL. With plans to increase the number of matches post-2028, the league will need a more sustainable and flexible structure. Fitting additional games into the sweltering summer months could become untenable.
A longer, cooler-season tournament could also enhance the viewing experience for fans — both in-stadium and on television — and reduce the risk of match disruptions due to heat stress.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the benefits, relocating the IPL is not without hurdles. The September-October window may clash with international bilateral series, ICC events, or even domestic competitions. The BCCI will need to work closely with ICC, cricket boards, and franchise owners to find a feasible solution.
“We need to sit across from and speak to the broadcaster for their opinion,” Dhumal emphasized. The next broadcast rights cycle, expected around the next tender process, may be the deciding moment for this potential move.
Current Season Reaches Climax
While the future of the IPL’s schedule is being debated, the 2026 season is hurtling toward its conclusion. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have already secured their place in the final, while the battle for the second spot intensifies.
The Eliminator between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) will be played on May 27 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh. The winner will face the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2 on May 29 for a shot at the title.
As fans gear up for a thrilling finish to this season, they may also be witnessing the last of the traditional IPL summer era — with a brighter, cooler future on the horizon.
