Bengaluru: Matthew Hayden has made a striking observation about the growing stature of the Indian Premier League (IPL), stating that several overseas players now regard the tournament as bigger than international cricket.
Speaking during a podcast appearance, the former Australian opener, who is currently serving as batting coach of Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026, highlighted how the league’s scale and intensity have transformed global cricketing priorities.
Hayden’s candid revelation on IPL’s stature
Hayden revealed that many foreign players, particularly from countries like South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, increasingly view the IPL as the pinnacle of the sport.
“Talking to different teams, I feel like the foreign players, particularly the South Africans, us (Australians) to a degree, from New Zealand, they tend to bill this competition like it is bigger than even international cricket,” he said.
His remarks underline a significant shift in how franchise cricket is perceived globally, especially among players who regularly participate in multiple T20 leagues.
Intensity and hype drive IPL’s appeal
Explaining the reasons behind such perceptions, Hayden pointed to the unmatched intensity and widespread attention the IPL commands.
“You could see why they do that. Because there is so much hype around it. When you are here in the IPL, it doesn’t matter whether you’re broadcasting, or just a punter in the streets, or where we are now on the other side of the fence,” he noted.
He added that the tournament’s immersive nature sets it apart.
“It just takes over for the entire period of IPL. It is just cricket every day. Sometimes even twice a day.”
The IPL’s dedicated window in the global cricket calendar, combined with its massive fan following and commercial success, has made it a focal point for players and audiences alike.
Hayden’s own IPL legacy
Hayden himself was among the most successful overseas players in the early years of the IPL. Representing Chennai Super Kings, he enjoyed a prolific run and finished as the leading run-scorer in the 2009 season.
The left-hander amassed 572 runs in just 12 matches that year, showcasing his dominance in the shortest format and cementing his place in IPL history.
Lucrative contracts and global pull
Another factor contributing to the IPL’s growing influence is the financial rewards it offers. Several overseas players today command massive contracts, reflecting the league’s commercial strength.
Among the highest-paid players in IPL 2026 is Heinrich Klaasen, who earns ₹23 crore with Sunrisers Hyderabad. Nicholas Pooran is close behind with ₹21 crore at Lucknow Super Giants.
Australian all-rounder Cameron Green was sold for ₹25.20 crore in the auction ahead of IPL 2026, although he earns ₹18 crore under the league’s mini-auction regulations.
Such lucrative deals, combined with global exposure and competitive cricket, make the IPL an attractive proposition for international players.
A shifting cricketing landscape
Hayden’s comments reflect a broader trend in modern cricket, where franchise leagues are increasingly competing with traditional international formats for players’ attention and commitment.
With packed stadiums, extensive broadcasting reach, and high-quality competition, the IPL continues to redefine the sport’s ecosystem. The tournament not only provides a platform for emerging talent but also brings together the world’s best cricketers in a single competition.
Conclusion
Matthew Hayden’s revelation highlights the IPL’s remarkable rise as a global sporting powerhouse. While international cricket remains the ultimate honour for many, the IPL’s scale, intensity, and rewards have elevated it to a level where it is often seen as equally — if not more — significant by overseas players. As the league continues to grow, its influence on the future of cricket appears stronger than ever.
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