The 2024 report by D & P Advisory, titled “Beyond 22 Yards – IPL’s Legacy and WPL’s Vision,” goes into extensive detail on the business valuations of both IPL and WPL. Even as the IPL innings recorded new heights, with the first-ever match where upwards of 500 runs were scored, the business enterprise value received an unexpected jolt. Value for the IPL has shrunk 11.7% from $11.2 billion in 2023 to $9.9 billion in 2024, led by the revaluation in media rights and the expectation of minimal competition for the upcoming media rights auction.
IPL remains gigantic in viewership on both TV and digital platforms despite the decline. Mumbai Indians remained the most valued IPL franchise, followed by Chennai Super Kings at a close second. The overall value of the IPL ecosystem declined from INR 92,500 crore in 2023 to INR 82,700 crore in 2024, showing a pragmatic future for media rights of the tournament.
Value of the IPL decreases but that of WPL increases
In comparison, the business enterprise value of the WPL increased by 8% from its inaugural season value at $150 million to $160 million in 2024. The second season of WPL was believed to be filled with much fan interaction in its development of growing effect on women’s cricket and sports entertainment. It keeps growing as a league where business and cricket are mixed; meanwhile, it cements its place in the sporting world.
In the case of all major sports, audiences were drawn to both IPL and WPL across platforms, leaving both leagues’ fundamental entertainment products within the Indian sports marketplace. But the financial landscape of the IPL might well face more challenges in times to come.
Also, see:
IPL’s earnings are now bigger than Pakistan Cricket’s annual budget
