IPL 2025 may have all the glitz and glamour, but behind the scenes, the league’s future hangs in the balance—will it keep clinging to its past stars, or finally let the next generation step into the limelight?
Turning 18 should be exciting- a moment to find your footing, stretch your limits, and maybe try something bold. The Indian Premier League, now in its 18th season, has checked all the boxes for growth: more cities, more teams, more games, and more screens to stream it on. Yet, amidst the drone shows and jersey reveals, a question resonates louder than ever: Is the IPL ready to move on from its past heroes?
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For over a decade, the league has thrived on the shoulders of its poster boys—MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. They have promoted everything from tickets and TVs to soft drinks and smartphones. However, with Father Time catching up and fitness and form visibly declining, the league now faces a tricky crossroads. Should it continue to milk nostalgia or make the bold leap into its future?
Let's call it what it is. The IPL still resonates with the air of Dhoni's last-over finishes, Kohli's fist pumps, and Rohit's lazy elegance. Every second promo still relies on their images. But here's the truth—Dhoni is 43, Rohit is missing more games than he's playing, and even Kohli, though still capable, isn't quite the sprinting gladiator he once was.
The issue isn't reverence; it's resistance. Despite cricket evolving into a faster, leaner beast, franchises and broadcasters cling to legends who may no longer contribute on the field. The stars may still sell jerseys, but are they still selling cricket?
In 2022, IPL viewership dipped by 18%—a decline that coincided with a major reshuffle and the arrival of two new teams. The reason? Familiar faces had changed teams or vanished altogether. Fans, it turns out, are creatures of habit. So, what happens when the biggest stars of all call it a day?
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Let's take a quick look at performances. Rohit is scoring at a strike rate that barely exceeds 120. Dhoni, meanwhile, plays based on how his knee feels. These aren't stats that intimidate bowlers; they indicate players reaching the twilight of their careers. Yet, their franchises are still spending heavily to retain them.
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The good news? India isn't lacking in cricketing talent. Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal—this next-gen lineup isn't just skilled; it's electric. They possess flair, impressive numbers, and youthful energy. But what they don't have—yet—is the spotlight.
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Rivalries like Pant vs Samson or Gill vs Gaikwad have untapped potential. These aren't merely internal matchups—they're narratives waiting to unfold. It's time the league gave them the stage, the marketing, and the moments they deserve.
Much like how the NBA prepared for life beyond Michael Jordan by ushering in Kobe, Shaq, and LeBron, the IPL must prepare its future before its past retires.
Imagine a world where teams are known more for their playing style than their star players. Sunrisers Hyderabad have already started down that path. With fearless batting and bold intent, they've given their fans an identity beyond individual players.
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Franchises must now begin promoting cricket, not just cricketers. Emphasise tactics, celebrate strategies and narrate deeper stories. Generate excitement not only around stars but also around systems. If the sport becomes the true hero, the league won't suffer when the old guard fades away.
IPL 2025 is crucial—not for the pitch events, but for shaping the league's future. Will it preserve the past or embrace change? Like every 18-year-old, the IPL must make a wise choice.
