Indian Premier League chairman Arun Dhumal has revealed that the 2025 season of world cricket’s biggest annual property is expected to begin on March 21.
It bears noting that the IPL 2025 kick-off date has already been reported, but now a top BCCI official has gone on record in the matter. Dhumal, during an event at Sansad Khel Mahakumbh in Bilaspur, declared the start date as March 21.
Dhumal also asserted that IPL 2025 will maintain its competitive spirit, with no major changes to existing rules, including the much-debated impact player rule.
“See, the IPL season will start in March. The time is set for March 21. And the schedule will be released in a few days,” Dhumal was quoted as saying by news agency IANS.
“No, there is no significant change in the rules. IPL is the most important cricket league in the world, where the players of the world come and play. And this tournament is organized with a very competitive spirit. And definitely, this time it will be even better,” he added.
Dharamshala could host 3 IPL games
Dhumal also expressed optimism over Dharamshala possibly hosting additional games this season. “Last time, Dharamshala hosted two IPL matches. This time, we’re hopeful for three, alongside other domestic tournaments like Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy being offered to venues like Bilaspur and Dharamshala,” he told the newswire.
The venues for the key games are on the expected lines. Eden Gardens, home the Kolkata Knight Riders, champions of IPL 2024, will host both the opener and the final, in line with the practice of holding these matches in the winning side’s home city. Meanwhile, the SunRisers Hyderabad, last season’s runners-up, will host two playoff games.
