IPL 2024: BCCI is planning to Start IPL 2024 from March 22
IPL 2024 Schedule Announced
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced that the 17th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will commence on March 22, 2024.
IPL chairman Arun Dhumal confirmed that the entire tournament will be played in India despite the matches overlapping with the Lok Sabha elections. This early start date is a change from the usual first week of April time slot for IPL seasons.
The schedule means IPL 2024 will likely finish by May 26, just days before India’s first match of the ICC T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies. The short turnaround time between the tournaments poses a challenge for players’ recovery and preparation.
With an estimated brand value of over $6.7 billion, the IPL is the richest franchise T20 league globally. Its growing popularity has led the BCCI to extend the tournament despite the potential logistical issues.
The initial schedule announcement indicates the league phase will begin on March 22. The playoffs and final dates are expected to be revealed later.
The BCCI is working with government agencies to ensure smooth conduct even if matches happen alongside polling dates. Rescheduling or shifting venue of matches may be required in some cases.
An early start suits overseas players who will be available before their domestic seasons commence in April. It also allows adequate breaks before the T20 World Cup. But the compressed schedule is taxing for cricketers.
While fans will enjoy more high-octane IPL action, the organizers face multiple challenges in pulling off the tournament alongside India’s general elections.
