India’s biggest cricket league may soon look very different in 2028. New reports suggest the BCCI is studying a bold growth plan.
Pune and Vadodara Lead the Race for Expansion
The IPL could grow from 10 teams to 12 by the 2028 season. A Mint report says the BCCI is exploring two additional franchises. Two extra teams would mean more matches for fans to enjoy.
The talks remain at an early stage, so nothing is final yet. The plan would match the next media rights cycle, which covers 2028 to 2032.
Pune already has a strong IPL history through two earlier franchises in the league. Pune Warriors India played from 2011 to 2013 and Rising Pune Supergiant played in 2016 and 2017.
Vadodara could become the second Gujarat city with an IPL franchise. Ahmedabad already hosts Gujarat Titans, so Vadodara would join a growing sports hub.
India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics has also boosted attention on Gujarat. Government support for sports infrastructure could further strengthen Gujarat’s sporting ecosystem.
Valuations and Investor Interest
Reports suggest each new franchise could be worth more than USD 1 billion. Several global and Indian investors have reportedly shown interest in the new teams.
The list includes sovereign wealth funds from West Asia and the firm Permira. Asian state-backed entities, Indian conglomerates and US family offices also appear on it.
The strong interest shows the growing commercial value of the IPL. Investor groups see the IPL as a valuable long-term asset.
Lessons From Past Franchise Sales
The BCCI added two franchises in 2022 and grew the league from eight to ten teams. The RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group bought Lucknow Super Giants for USD 940 million.
CVC Capital Partners acquired Gujarat Titans for USD 750 million. Recent sales of Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals also drew significant bids. These deals have raised expectations for the next two franchises.
As Pune and Vadodara lead the race, the BCCI must still make a final decision. Fans may soon see two new teams in IPL 2028 if the plan moves forward. Until then, it’s only in early reports.