Two New IPL Teams Loom: League Eyes 12 Franchises From 2028

The Indian Premier League could be heading for its biggest shake-up in years. The BCCI is reportedly exploring two new franchises from 2028, which would take the world’s richest T20 league to 12 teams. Pune and Vadodara are said to be the early frontrunners.

What Is Being Reported?

According to a report in Mint, the BCCI is looking at adding at least two sides to the IPL. It would be the league’s most significant expansion since 2022.

Talks are understood to be at a very early stage. The final choice of cities could still change before any official announcement.

Why 2028 Is the Key Year

The timing is no accident. The expansion is expected to align with the next IPL media rights cycle, which will run from 2028 to 2032.

Each new franchise could be valued at more than $1 billion, according to the report. Interest is reportedly growing among Indian business groups and international investment firms alike.

Valuations Are Driving the Buzz

A sharp rise in franchise values has given investors fresh confidence. Two big ownership deals in particular have reset expectations for what a new team could fetch.

United Spirits, the Indian arm of Diageo, agreed to sell RCB in the first deal. Together, the two transactions have strengthened the belief that any new team will command a premium price.

Why Pune Is a Frontrunner

Pune is a familiar address for IPL fans. The city has already hosted two franchises in the past.

Pune’s IPL History

Pune Warriors India, owned by the Sahara Group, played in the league from 2011 to 2013. They later left after a dispute with the BCCI over franchise fees.

The city got another shot in 2016 and 2017, when Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals were suspended. Rising Pune Supergiant stepped in and reached the 2017 final, where they lost to Mumbai Indians by a single run.

Who Could Be Bidding?

Mint says a long list of investors is already watching closely. Private equity firm Permira is one of the names understood to be interested.

Sovereign wealth funds from West Asia and state-backed investment bodies from elsewhere in Asia are also said to be keen. US-based family offices and well-known Indian conglomerates round out the list.

The Hurdles Ahead for the BCCI

Before committing, the board has plenty to weigh. The first is the commercial case, which has to work for existing franchises as well as the new ones.

Stretching the Talent Pool

Adding two teams means spreading the same pool of top Indian players a little thinner. That could affect the quality of play and the competitive balance fans love.

Broadcasters Will Have a Say

More franchises mean more matches, and that raises the overall cost of the media rights. The current 2023 to 2027 cycle was sold for $6.2 billion.

Any broadcaster eyeing the next cycle will want proof that a bigger schedule still adds up financially.

The Case For and Against Expansion

The argument for growth is strong. India is a massive market with cities eager for a team of their own, and Pune has already proven it can support one.

New franchises would also open up more opportunities for domestic players, coaches and support staff. The sky-high valuations suggest the business world still believes the product is growing.

But growth brings risk. A longer season adds to the workload of India’s best players, who are already stretched across formats. Broadcasters, meanwhile, would have to pay more for the same window of time.

Final Word: Growth Versus Dilution

The BCCI has never been shy about reshaping the league. The challenge now is protecting player welfare and fan interest as much as chasing valuations.

A careful, well-planned expansion could strengthen the IPL. A rushed one might simply dilute what made it special in the first place.

FAQ: IPL 12-Team Expansion

Will the IPL have 12 teams from 2028?

It is being considered, but talks are at an early stage and nothing is official.

Which cities are in the frame?

Pune and Vadodara are the likely homes, though the final picks could still change.