IPL’s brand value reaches to whopping 10.7 billion dollars with Mumbai emerging as most-valued franchise

Indian cricket has gone through various changes in the last fifteen years. One of the prominent reasons for the rise of Indian cricket and its dominance in world cricket has been their flagship domestic tournament – Indian Premier League (IPL). IPL has increased Indian cricket’s cash flow threefold in the last few years and has played a major role in making the Indian Cricket Board, the wealthiest cricket board in the world.

The juggernaut of the IPL can be estimated from the fact that its brand value has grown by 433% from its inception in 2008 to reach $10.7 billion (roughly 89,232 crores). Its valuation has shown a growth of 28% from the last edition played in 2023, as reported by brand valuation consultancy Bajaj Finance.

The surge in the spectator’s presence on the ground, steadily growing eyeballs for the league on various internet platforms and other types of media partnerships have been some major reasons for the constant rise in the stature of the IPL.

Mumbai Indians in the most valued IPL franchised: Reports

The consultancy firm’s report also valued all the IPL franchises and concluded that Mumbai Indians owned by the Ambani’s and which has won 5 IPL titles is the most valuable IPL franchise with a worth of $87 million. Mumbai Indian has a legacy in the IPL. The team is led by India captain Rohit Sharma, it has won the IPL titles five times and is among one of the most consistent teams of the IPL.

Mumbai Indians is followed by Chennai Super Kings at the second spot with a brand valuation of $81 million. Under the leadership of MS Dhoni, CSK has been the most consistent team in IPL history and has managed to win the coveted trophy five times. Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore are the third and fourth most valued franchises in the pecking order with a valuation of $78.6 and $69.8 million.

What transformed IPL into such a huge entity?

Here are some key factors that contributed to the increased brand value:

1. Women's Premier League: The launch of the WPL, which will feature female cricketers from around the world, generated significant buzz and brought new fans to the IPL ecosystem. This expanded reach contributed to a higher overall brand value for the league.

2. Rule Changes: Several exciting new rules were introduced in IPL 2023, including:

52 matchdays: This extended schedule provided more opportunities for fans to engage with the league.

Impact player rule: This rule allowed teams to substitute a player during the second innings, adding an element of excitement to the league.

Decision Review System (DRS): The implementation of the DRS ensured greater accuracy and fairness in decision-making, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

3. Free Streaming on Jio Cinema: Mukesh Ambani-owned Jio Cinema offered free streaming of IPL 2023 matches in over 15 languages, making the league accessible to a wider audience than ever before. This move not only increased viewership but also attracted new sponsors and advertisers.