BCCI Considers Earlier IPL Start to Combat Extreme Heat and Monsoon Risks

The BCCI is exploring the possibility of shifting the Indian Premier League (IPL) schedule to an earlier start date beginning with the 2027 season. This move aims to reduce the number of matches played during the peak of summer’s extreme heat. While the tournament typically runs from late March to late May or early June—as seen in the 2026 season which spanned March 28 to May 31—BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia indicated that the board is considering a window from approximately March 10 to May 15.

“This year, the IPL started around March 28 and concluded on May 31,” Saikia told PTI. “Our current discussions focus on the latter stages of the tournament; after May 15, there is a significant risk of rainfall and the onset of the pre-monsoon season.”

Saikia noted that the sweltering weather is detrimental to both the athletes and the spectators. “The heat is not conducive for the players or the crowds. Therefore, the BCCI and the IPL governing council are discussing whether the tournament can commence earlier than the end of March.”

“Starting from next year, we will make an effort. I have already instructed our general manager of games development, Abey Kuruvilla, to identify available windows. The goal is to start by March 10 and finish by May 15 to avoid adverse weather during the playoffs and the finals of the 20th anniversary edition in 2027.”

The proposal follows numerous complaints from players and fans regarding the oppressive temperatures. Saikia emphasized that not all international players are properly acclimatized to such extreme conditions, and creating a more pleasant atmosphere is a priority for the milestone 20th season.

Regarding the potential expansion of the tournament, Saikia expressed skepticism about increasing the schedule from 74 to 94 matches in the near future due to the congested international calendar. Since expanding to 10 teams in 2022, the league has operated on a partial double-round-robin format.

“That is not feasible right now because we must consider the availability of players from various nations,” Saikia explained. “Securing this two-month window is already a challenge. Extending it beyond two months would interfere with bilateral matches in other countries.”

While he did not entirely rule out future expansion, Saikia stressed that the interests of other ICC member nations—specifically players from Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, and the West Indies—must be respected to avoid disrupting bilateral series and other multi-nation tournaments.

To facilitate an earlier IPL start, Saikia noted that the Indian domestic cricket calendar would also need adjustment. “Our domestic system is robust, running from August with the Irani Trophy through the Ranji Trophy final in March. To start the IPL by March 10, we will need to condense some of those domestic fixtures to ensure the season concludes in time.”

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