• The Indian Premier League (IPL), started in 2008 by BCCI, is the world’s richest T20 cricket league.
• It blends sports, entertainment, business, and diplomacy, offering a unique platform for talent and revenue.
• With a valuation exceeding $11 billion, IPL significantly contributes to India’s GDP and global soft power.
• Its format promotes regional identity, boosts local economies, and aids sports infrastructure development.

CURRENT

• Format: 10 teams, 74 matches, league + playoffs + final.
• Venue: Final hosted at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad, the world’s largest cricket stadium.
• Clash for Legacy:
  • RCB (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) vs PBKS (Punjab Kings) in the final.
  • RCB won, ending an 18-year title drought.
  • Punjab still awaits their maiden trophy.
• Key Performers & Awards:
  •  MVP: Suryakumar Yadav (MI) – 717 runs.
  • Orange Cap: Sai Sudharsan (GT) – 759 runs, including 6 fifties & 1 century.
  •  Purple Cap: Prasidh Krishna (GT) – 25 wickets.
  •  Emerging Player: Sai Sudharsan, also called up to the Indian Test team.
  •  Super Striker: Vaibhav Suryavanshi (RR) – 206.6 SR.
  •  Most Sixes: Nicholas Pooran (LSG) – 40.
  • Fair Play Award: Chennai Super Kings.
  •  Catch of the Season: Kamindu Mendis (SRH).
  •  Fantasy King: Sai Sudharsan – 1495 points.
  •  Player of the Final: Krunal Pandya (RCB) – 2/17 with spin.