The BCCI is gearing up to make a notable change to the IPL calendar, with secretary Devajit Saikia sharing that IPL 2027 might kick off as early as March 10 and wrap up by May 15. This proposal comes in response to ongoing worries about the sweltering heat and the looming threat of pre-monsoon showers during the tournament’s final stages. Saikia mentioned that discussions are currently taking place within the BCCI and the IPL Governing Council to craft a schedule that’s more accommodating for both players and fans. This adjustment would help the league’s landmark 20th edition steer clear of challenging weather conditions during the playoffs and the final.
In discussing the plan, Saikia highlighted that “From next year, we will make an effort and I have already instructed our general manager (games development) [former India fast bowler Abey Kuruvilla] to look for the windows, whether we can start it by 10th of March and conclude it by 15th of May. So that there are no adverse weather conditions in the run-up to the playoffs and the finals of IPL 2027, which will be the 20th edition.I’m hearing a lot of complaints from the fans as well as from the players, because not all players are very well-equipped or well-acclimatised to play in such hot conditions.”
He noted that the board has been hearing from both players and fans about the intense heat that tends to hit during the latter part of the season. To tackle these issues, he has tasked General Manager (Games Development) Abey Kuruvilla with looking into scheduling options that would allow the IPL to kick off around March 10. The goal is to finish the competition by mid-May, ensuring a smoother conclusion to the season without any weather-related hiccups.
Total Number of Matches and Availability of Foreign Players
Saikia also ruled out any immediate increase in the IPL’s match count from 74 to 94, saying the international cricket calendar leaves little room for expansion. The BCCI is already working within a tight two-month window and extending the tournament could affect bilateral commitments across major cricketing nations. He pointed out that overseas players remain central to the IPL, making coordination with other boards essential. The challenge is particularly evident in early 2027, when India are scheduled to host Australia for a five-Test series that could run until March 3, while Australian and England players will also be involved in the 150th Anniversary Test at Lord’s from March 11 to 15. With players from Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa and the West Indies balancing national duties. The board’s priority is to protect both the IPL window and the wider international cricket schedule.
