June 8, 2025: The Indian Premier League (IPL) must expand its season from the current eight weeks to 12–16 weeks if it is to match the global brand power of sporting giants like the NFL, NBA, and Premier League, according to Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman.
Speaking in an interview, Burman highlighted that although the IPL already commands the second-highest per-match value in global sport—estimated at USD 16.8 million, trailing only the NFL (USD 36.8 million)—its overall brand value remains behind its international peers. According to investment bank Houlihan Lokey, the IPL is worth USD 16 billion, still short of the valuation of top individual franchises like the Dallas Cowboys (USD 9 billion) and New York Yankees (USD 7.1 billion).
“We’re already second in the world when it comes to per-match value. But overall brand value? That’s a different game,” said Burman. “I think we need a 12–16-week window to get there.”
📅 Longer Season = Greater Value
Burman believes a longer season would allow for deeper storytelling, stronger rivalries, and greater fan and sponsor engagement, ultimately pushing the IPL toward becoming a year-round entertainment product.
“It’s not just about the length. It’s about what we do with that time – the kind of content we create, how we engage fans, and how we evolve the league,” he explained.
Other global leagues benefit from extended seasons:
- English Premier League: ~9 months
- NBA: ~7 months
- NFL: ~4.5 months
🌐 Global Relevance Over Global Relocation
Burman clarified that taking the IPL abroad isn’t the goal. Instead, he advocates for building a globally relevant brand with storytelling, players, and content that resonate worldwide.
“The fan experience must keep evolving. It’s not just about cricket anymore — it’s sport, entertainment, and culture rolled into one.”
A clean window without scheduling clashes would also ensure player availability, which Burman sees as critical for maintaining the league’s quality.
📈 Franchises Expanding Globally
Punjab Kings is among several IPL teams that have invested in overseas leagues. Burman and his co-owners own the Saint Lucia Kings in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and support the trend of IPL teams expanding to SA20, ILT20, MLC, and The Hundred.
“It’s a smart and strategic move. Teams are building a common culture and systems across leagues. We’re creating a brand that travels.”
🔄 Punjab Kings: A Turnaround Story
After a long drought, Punjab Kings reached the IPL final this year, their first in 11 years. Burman credited the turnaround to the appointment of Ricky Ponting as head coach, and the decision to back Shreyas Iyer as captain.
“Ricky transformed the energy and mindset. Shreyas brought composure and unity. There’s no hierarchy here – just one team, one goal.”
He added that the franchise also restructured its marketing, fan outreach, and internal culture, leading to a 25% commercial growth year-on-year.
🏁 The Road Ahead
As the IPL cements its status as the premier cricket league globally, Burman believes the next challenge lies in sustained growth, global connection, and operational consistency.
“The IPL has the scale. Now it’s about consistency and depth. We’re not just creating teams — we’re building a movement.”