BCCI approves 10-team IPL from 2022 onwards at AGM; IPL 2021 to take place with 8 teams

BCCI approves 10-team IPL from 2022 onwards at AGM; IPL 2021 to take place with 8 teams

WhatsApp Image 2020 09 06 at 1.09.37 PM

IPL trophy

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in the Annual General Meeting have decided that there will be 10 teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) from 2022 onwards, according to ANI. Following the conclusion of the IPL in 2020, speculations were rife that two new franchises would be added in the following season in 2021 leading to a mega-auction. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic situation still looming large, the BCCI has decided on 2022.

BCCI President Sourav Ganguly had already made it clear that the 2021 season won’t be held in any other place but India. Due to the decision, there is bound to only be a mini-auction in 2021 followed by a mega auction and the induction of two new teams in the 2022 edition.

‘New franchises in 2022 will add value to 2021 edition’

BCCI
BCCI

All but confirming the decision that was taken at today’s AGM, a source from the BCCI had earlier told TOI about the same saying, “The BCCI could call for the bids in February or March or April – whenever they think the time is right. The adding of new franchises in 2022, say stakeholders for 2021, will also add value to the 2021 edition once it becomes a talking point. That’s the line of thought as of now.”

“Two new franchises will obviously have their own share of value when the media rights tender comes along. Also, two more things: First, the central revenue pool for the 2021 season won’t be diluted, which means the franchises will be happy; Second, once again 60 matches will be held, which means lesser double-headers, so the broadcaster will be happy,” the source reportedly added.

The decision has now been confirmed. Thus, the 2021 edition will be similar to the 2020 edition of the IPL with 8 teams and similar squads. The huge makeover with a mega-auction will take place in 2022.

Other decisions from the AGM

Sourav Ganguly
BCCI President Sourav Ganguly

The BCCI made other important decisions at the AGM as well. The board decided to back the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) attempts to include cricket in the 2028 Olympic Games. Further, compensation for domestic cricketers due to the shortened season owing to the pandemic was decided upon.

Sourav Ganguly who was reportedly under some pressure due to his brand endorsements was chosen to continue as President of the board. Rajeev Shukla, the ex-chairman of the IPL, was appointed officially as the vice-president of the BCCI. The retirement age of match referees and umpires was meanwhile, increased from 55 to 60 at the AGM.

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