The rise of T20 franchise cricket, led by the Indian Premier League (IPL), is threatening the future of international cricket, with experts warning that the 50-over format and even Test matches could be at risk. The IPL's expansion and its owners' investments in overseas leagues are reshaping the sport, prioritising club over country.
Recent events highlight the trend. South Africa forfeited a 50-over series against Australia to prioritise their new T20 competition. Ben Stokes quit one-day internationals, citing a lack of financial reward, while Moeen Ali predicted the 50-over format could disappear within two years. The IPL's broadcasting revenue has surged to over £5 billion for 2023-27, making it the second most lucrative league per match after the NFL.
IPL franchises are buying stakes in leagues worldwide, from the Caribbean to the UAE, aiming to employ cricketers year-round. This mirrors the Premier League model, where club competitions dominate. Former India coach Ravi Shastri suggested Test cricket should be limited to six teams, sparking debate but reflecting growing concerns about the sport's direction.
