In a groundbreaking announcement, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has unveiled the schedules for its next three seasons. The 2025 season will commence on March 14 and conclude with the final on May 25. The 2026 edition will span from March 15 to May 31, while the 2027 season is planned between March 14 and May 30. Although these dates are being referred to as "windows," they are expected to serve as the finalised schedule.
The 2025 season will feature 74 matches, consistent with the previous three seasons, though this falls short of the 84 matches initially outlined in the IPL's 2022 media rights tender. The document projected a gradual increase, with 84 games planned for 2025 and 2026 and a peak of 94 matches by 2027, the final year of the current rights cycle.
Adding to the excitement, most cricket boards from Full Member nations have granted their players full availability for the next three IPL seasons. However, Pakistani cricketers remain absent due to longstanding political tensions between India and Pakistan. Below is a country-wise breakdown of player participation as outlined in the IPL's email:
- Australia: Cricket Australia has cleared its players for the 2025 season. For 2026, Australian players will join the IPL after concluding a three-match ODI series in Pakistan by March 18 and resting post the T20 World Cup, scheduled for February-March 2026. In 2027, players participating in a commemorative Test against England in March will join after the match.
- England: The ECB has confirmed full availability for 18 centrally contracted players over the next three years. Notable names include Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler, and Harry Brook. However, England Test captain Ben Stokes will not be part of the 2025 auction. Non-centrally contracted English players will also remain fully available.
- South Africa, New Zealand, West Indies, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe: Players from these nations will have unrestricted participation.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed full availability for 2025 and for retained players in subsequent seasons.
- Bangladesh: The BCB has provided a list of 13 players with varying availability across the three-year span. This includes stars like Shakib Al Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, and Mustafizur Rahman.
The IPL’s proactive scheduling and clear communication regarding player availability signal its commitment to maintaining the league’s high standards, ensuring an exhilarating experience for fans worldwide.