March 29, 2025 – The 18th Indian Premier League has kicked off in spectacular fashion, delivering high-scoring matches and impressive batting displays. While it hasn’t quite matched the explosive opening of 2008 when Brendon McCullum smashed an unbeaten 158 for Kolkata Knight Riders, the tournament has seen an average of 208.7 runs per innings in the first five matches—significantly higher than 152 in 2008.
In recent years, scoring rates have steadily climbed, from an average of 165 runs per innings in 2022 to 173 in 2023 and 175.5 in 2024. Early signs suggest 2025 will continue this upward trend.
Several factors have contributed to this rise in scoring. First, pitch preparation has increasingly favored batting. Second, the use of data-driven "matchups" has allowed batters to target specific bowlers more effectively. Third, the 2022 expansion from eight to ten teams has arguably diluted bowling talent, as the demand for quality Indian players has outpaced supply. Lastly, the introduction of the impact player rule in 2023 has provided an extra edge for teams, allowing them to substitute a specialist bowler or batter mid-game.
A perfect example of the impact player’s influence came in match four when Ashutosh Sharma was introduced as a substitute for Delhi Capitals. With his team struggling at 65 for five, he forged a crucial seventh-wicket partnership and went on to smash 66 off 31 balls. His final-over six secured a dramatic victory, demonstrating how the rule can create unexpected heroes.
The IPL’s constant innovation also extends to rule changes. The saliva ban on ball shining—introduced in 2020—has been lifted, offering some relief to bowlers. Additionally, a new rule allows bowlers to request a fresh ball after the 10th over of the second innings, helping counteract the effects of dew.
Beyond the action on the field, the IPL continues to grow commercially. Investment bank Houlihan Lokey estimates the league’s 2024 brand value at $3.4 billion—up $1.6 billion since 2022—making it the second-most valuable sports league globally after the NFL. This growth is expected to continue in 2025, driven by increased sponsorship deals and booming media rights.
The 2025 edition is being broadcast for the first time on JioStar, the newly merged entity of Star India and Viacom18. JioStar’s extensive coverage spans 24 platforms, including JioHotstar, and it secured a 10 percent rise in advertising rates compared to 2024. With no competition from major global events like the T20 World Cup or the Olympics, advertisers are directing heavy spending toward the IPL.
Team sponsorship revenues have also surged, rising by an estimated 20 percent compared to 2024. Mumbai Indians’ record-breaking deal with Lauritz Knudsen for front-of-jersey sponsorship highlights the growing commercial power of IPL franchises. Beyond jerseys, teams have secured multiple sponsorships across various parts of their kits and playing environments.
The IPL has firmly established itself as the dominant force in cricket, blending sport, entertainment, and business into a powerful global brand. It has spurred the rise of franchise cricket worldwide while driving significant economic benefits in India at both local and national levels. More than just a tournament, the IPL is now an integral part of Indian culture, and its growth shows no signs of slowing—if anything, it’s accelerating.