BCCI explores adding IPL teams from 2028

The Board of Control for Cricket in India is exploring adding at least two teams to the Indian Premier League from 2028, with Pune and Vadodara among the cities under consideration. The discussions are preliminary, and neither the expansion nor the proposed destinations have been confirmed.

The possible additions would coincide with the next IPL media-rights cycle, which is scheduled to cover 2028 to 2032. The league currently has 10 franchises; adding two would bring it to 12. Reports based on people familiar with the discussions say the number of teams and host cities could change as the plans develop.

A person familiar with the proposal said each new franchise could be valued at more than $1 billion. Potential investors being considered reportedly include private equity firm Permira, West Asian sovereign wealth funds, Asian state-backed entities, US family offices and Indian business groups. Some may be interested in minority stakes. These are prospective valuations and investment discussions, not completed sales.

Pune has previously hosted two IPL teams. Pune Warriors India competed from 2011 to 2013 before leaving the league following financial disagreements with the BCCI...