The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a cricket league that has captured the hearts of cricket lovers around the world since its inception in 2008. It has become one of the most popular sporting events globally, attracting a massive fan base and generating huge revenues. The league features some of the world’s best cricket players and has revolutionized the game in many ways, including player auctions, innovative match formats, and high-quality entertainment.
In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about IPL. We’ll start with the basics – what IPL is, how it started, and how teams build their squads through player auctions. We’ll then introduce you to all the teams in IPL, their owners, and their captains who have led their teams to victory over the years. We’ll also take a look at the IPL winners and runners-up since its inception and explore the venues where the matches are played.
We’ll cover the IPL schedule, how teams earn points, and how they qualify for the playoffs. We’ll also explore the IPL fan base, where you can get IPL merchandise, and how to watch the matches on TV or online. If you’re a cricket fan who loves playing fantasy cricket, we’ve got you covered with our guide on how to play and win big in the IPL fantasy league.
We’ll also dive into the controversial side of IPL and take a look at some of the biggest controversies that have occurred over the years. Lastly, we’ll give you a recap of the latest IPL season, including the highlights and results of IPL 2021.
So whether you’re a seasoned IPL fan or new to the game, our comprehensive guide to IPL will provide you with everything you need to know about one of the most exciting cricket leagues in the world.
Introduction to IPL: What is it and how did it start?
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is a professional Twenty20 cricket league in India that was founded by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2007. The league is known for its fast-paced and high-scoring cricket matches, featuring some of the world’s best players from around the globe.
Origins of IPL:
The idea of IPL was conceptualized by Lalit Modi, then Vice President of the BCCI, who wanted to create a league that would be a shorter and more exciting version of cricket. IPL was launched in 2008 and became an instant hit, attracting a huge fan following from around the world.
Franchise-based format:
IPL follows a franchise-based format, where eight teams representing different cities in India compete against each other. These teams are owned by some of the biggest names in the sports and entertainment industries, including Shah Rukh Khan, Juhi Chawla, Preity Zinta, and Mukesh Ambani, among others.
Innovation in the game:
Apart from its unique franchise-based format, IPL has also introduced many innovations in the game of cricket, such as the use of cheerleaders, player auctions, and strategic timeouts. IPL has also provided a platform for young and talented players to showcase their skills and has helped in the development of Indian cricket.
Understanding Player Auctions: How do teams build their squads?
Player auctions are a crucial aspect of the IPL, as they determine which players will represent each team for the upcoming season. Let’s take a look at how teams build their squads through player auctions:
Step 1: Retention
Before the player auction, each team can retain a maximum of four players from their previous season’s squad. These players can be retained either through a retention system or a right-to-match card during the auction.
Step 2: Auction
The player auction is conducted every year, usually a few months before the start of the IPL season. During the auction, teams bid for the remaining players to build their squads. The auction process typically involves three types of players:
- Indian players with a base price in Indian Rupees (INR)
- Overseas players with a base price in US Dollars (USD)
- Uncapped players with a base price in INR
Step 3: Budget
Each team has a set budget of INR 85 crore (approximately USD 11.3 million) to build their squad. This includes the money spent on retaining players and the amount spent during the auction.
Step 4: Strategy
Teams need to come up with a strategy before the auction, based on their requirements and the available players. This involves identifying the key areas that need strengthening, such as batting, bowling, or all-rounders, and then bidding for the players who fit their strategy.
Step 5: Building the Squad
After the auction, each team has a squad of up to 25 players, including a maximum of eight overseas players. The team can then select their playing XI from this squad, based on their strategy and the conditions of the match.
IPL Teams: A Comprehensive List of All the Teams in IPL
The Indian Premier League (IPL) features eight teams representing different cities in India. Let’s take a closer look at each team:
| Team Name | City | Owner | Captain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chennai Super Kings | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | India Cements | MS Dhoni |
| Delhi Capitals | Delhi | GMR Group and JSW Group | Rishabh Pant |
| Kings XI Punjab | Mohali, Punjab | Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia, Mohit Burman, and Karan Paul | KL Rahul |
| Kolkata Knight Riders | Kolkata, West Bengal | Red Chillies Entertainment and Mehta Group | Eoin Morgan |
| Mumbai Indians | Mumbai, Maharashtra | Reliance Industries | Rohit Sharma |
| Rajasthan Royals | Jaipur, Rajasthan | Manoj Badale | Sanju Samson |
| Royal Challengers Bangalore | Bengaluru, Karnataka | United Spirits | Virat Kohli |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad | Hyderabad, Telangana | Sun TV Network | Kane Williamson |
Chennai Super Kings:
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is one of the most successful teams in IPL history, having won the title three times. The team is led by former Indian captain MS Dhoni and is owned by India Cements.
Delhi Capitals:
Delhi Capitals (DC), formerly known as Delhi Daredevils, has never won an IPL title but has made it to the playoffs on a few occasions. The team is co-owned by GMR Group and JSW Group and is led by wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant.
Kings XI Punjab:
Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) has been a consistent performer in the IPL but is yet to win a title. The team is co-owned by Bollywood actress Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia, Mohit Burman, and Karan Paul, and is led by Indian batsman KL Rahul.
Kolkata Knight Riders:
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) has won the IPL title twice, and the team is co-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, actress Juhi Chawla, and her spouse Jay Mehta. KKR is currently led by English skipper Eoin Morgan.
Mumbai Indians:
Mumbai Indians (MI) is the most successful team in IPL history, having won the title a record five times. The team is owned by Reliance Industries, and is led by Indian opener Rohit Sharma.
Rajasthan Royals:
Rajasthan Royals (RR) won the first-ever IPL title in 2008 but has struggled to make an impact in recent years. The team is owned by Manoj Badale and is led by Indian wicket-keeper Sanju Samson.
Royal Challengers Bangalore:
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is owned by United Spirits and is captained by Indian skipper Virat Kohli. Despite having a star-studded line-up, RCB has never won an IPL title.
Sunrisers Hyderabad:
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) won the IPL title in 2016 and has made it to the playoffs on a few occasions. The team is owned by Sun TV Network and is led by New Zealand captain Kane Williamson.
Captains of the IPL: Who has led their team to victory?
The captain of a team plays a crucial role in the success of the team, both on and off the field. Let’s take a look at the captains who have led their team to victory in the IPL:
| Year | Winning Team | Captain |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | Rajasthan Royals | Shane Warne |
| 2009 | Deccan Chargers | Adam Gilchrist |
| 2010 | Chennai Super Kings | MS Dhoni |
| 2011 | Chennai Super Kings | MS Dhoni |
| 2012 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Gautam Gambhir |
| 2013 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2014 | Kolkata Knight Riders | Gautam Gambhir |
| 2015 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2016 | Sunrisers Hyderabad | David Warner |
| 2017 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2018 | Chennai Super Kings | MS Dhoni |
| 2019 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
| 2020 | Mumbai Indians | Rohit Sharma |
Shane Warne:
Australian spin legend Shane Warne was the captain of Rajasthan Royals when they won the first-ever IPL title in 2008. Warne was instrumental in leading a young and inexperienced team to victory, and his tactical acumen was praised by fans and experts alike.
Adam Gilchrist:
Australian wicket-keeper batsman Adam Gilchrist led Deccan Chargers to their maiden IPL title in 2009. Gilchrist was a key player for the team, both with the bat and behind the stumps, and his leadership skills were vital in guiding the team to victory.
MS Dhoni:
Indian captain MS Dhoni is one of the most successful captains in IPL history, having led Chennai Super Kings to three titles and led them to the playoffs on multiple occasions. Dhoni is known for his calm demeanor and tactical acumen, and his leadership has been crucial in the success of CSK over the years.
Gautam Gambhir:
Indian opener Gautam Gambhir led Kolkata Knight Riders to two IPL titles in 2012 and 2014. Gambhir was a key player for the team, both with the bat and in the field, and his captaincy skills were crucial in guiding KKR to victory.
Rohit Sharma:
Indian opener Rohit Sharma is the most successful captain in IPL history, having led Mumbai Indians to five titles. Rohit is known for his aggressive batting and his calm demeanor as a captain, and his leadership has been instrumental in the success of MI over the years.
David Warner:
Australian opener David Warner led Sunrisers Hyderabad to their maiden IPL title in 2016. Warner was a key player for the team, both with the bat and in the field, and his captaincy skills were crucial in guiding SRH to victory.
IPL Team Owners: Who are the people behind the teams?
The Indian Premier League (IPL) teams are owned by some of the biggest names in the sports and entertainment industries. Let’s take a closer look at the owners of each team:
| Team Name | Owner(s) |
|---|---|
| Chennai Super Kings | India Cements |
| Delhi Capitals | GMR Group and JSW Group |
| Kings XI Punjab | Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia, Mohit Burman, and Karan Paul |
| Kolkata Knight Riders | Red Chillies Entertainment and Mehta Group |
| Mumbai Indians | Reliance Industries |
| Rajasthan Royals | Manoj Badale |
| Royal Challengers Bangalore | United Spirits |
| Sunrisers Hyderabad | Sun TV Network |
India Cements:
Chennai Super Kings is owned by India Cements, a cement manufacturing company based in Chennai. The company is chaired by former BCCI president N. Srinivasan.
GMR Group and JSW Group:
Delhi Capitals is co-owned by the GMR Group and JSW Group. The GMR Group is a global infrastructure conglomerate, while the JSW Group is a leading steel conglomerate in India.
Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia, Mohit Burman, and Karan Paul:
Kings XI Punjab is co-owned by Bollywood actress Preity Zinta, businessman Ness Wadia, Mohit Burman of Dabur, and Karan Paul of the Apeejay Surendra Group.
Red Chillies Entertainment and Mehta Group:
Kolkata Knight Riders is co-owned by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment and Mehta Group, a conglomerate based in Kolkata.
Reliance Industries:
Mumbai Indians is owned by Reliance Industries, one of the largest conglomerates in India, owned by Mukesh Ambani.
Manoj Badale:
Rajasthan Royals is owned by Manoj Badale, an entrepreneur and investor based in the UK.
United Spirits:
Royal Challengers Bangalore is owned by United Spirits, a subsidiary of British alcoholic beverages company Diageo.
Sun TV Network:
Sunrisers Hyderabad is owned by Sun TV Network, a media company based in Chennai.
IPL Winners: A Complete List of IPL Champions
Since its inception in 2008, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen many exciting matches, close finishes, and thrilling moments. Here’s a complete list of IPL champions since its inception:
- 2008 – Rajasthan Royals
- 2009 – Deccan Chargers
- 2010 – Chennai Super Kings
- 2011 – Chennai Super Kings
- 2012 – Kolkata Knight Riders
- 2013 – Mumbai Indians
- 2014 – Kolkata Knight Riders
- 2015 – Mumbai Indians
- 2016 – Sunrisers Hyderabad
- 2017 – Mumbai Indians
- 2018 – Chennai Super Kings
- 2019 – Mumbai Indians
- 2020 – Mumbai Indians
IPL Runners-up: The Teams Who Came Close But Couldn’t Cross the Line
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has seen many exciting matches and close finishes over the years, and some teams have come tantalizingly close to winning the title, only to fall short in the final. Here’s a list of all the IPL runners-up since the inception of the league:
| Year | Runner-up Team |
|---|---|
| 2008 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2009 | Royal Challengers Bangalore |
| 2010 | Mumbai Indians |
| 2011 | Royal Challengers Bangalore |
| 2012 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2013 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2014 | Kings XI Punjab |
| 2015 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2016 | Royal Challengers Bangalore |
| 2017 | Rising Pune Supergiant |
| 2018 | Sunrisers Hyderabad |
| 2019 | Chennai Super Kings |
| 2020 | Delhi Capitals |
Chennai Super Kings:
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is one of the most successful teams in IPL history, having won the title three times. However, the team has also been the runner-up on five occasions, which is the most for any team in the IPL.
Royal Challengers Bangalore:
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has made it to the final three times but has failed to win the title on each occasion. The team is owned by United Spirits and is captained by Indian skipper Virat Kohli.
Mumbai Indians:
Mumbai Indians (MI) is the most successful team in IPL history, having won the title a record five times. The team has also been the runner-up on two occasions.
Kings XI Punjab:
Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) has made it to the final once but failed to win the title. The team is co-owned by Bollywood actress Preity Zinta, Ness Wadia, Mohit Burman, and Karan Paul, and is led by Indian batsman KL Rahul.
Rising Pune Supergiant:
Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) made it to the final in their debut season in 2017 but lost to Mumbai Indians in a thrilling final. The team was captained by Australian skipper Steve Smith.
Sunrisers Hyderabad:
Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has made it to the final twice but has failed to win the title on both occasions. The team is owned by Sun TV Network and is led by New Zealand captain Kane Williamson.
Delhi Capitals:
Delhi Capitals (DC), formerly known as Delhi Daredevils, made it to the final for the first time in 2020 but lost to Mumbai Indians in a one-sided final. The team is co-owned by GMR Group and JSW Group and is led by wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant.
IPL Venues: Where Are the Matches Played?
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is played across various venues in India, with each team playing their home matches at their designated home ground. Here’s a list of all the IPL venues:
| Venue | City | Home Team(s) |
|---|---|---|
| M. A. Chidambaram Stadium | Chennai | Chennai Super Kings |
| Arun Jaitley Stadium | Delhi | Delhi Capitals |
| Wankhede Stadium | Mumbai | Mumbai Indians |
| M. Chinnaswamy Stadium | Bangalore | Royal Challengers Bangalore |
| Eden Gardens | Kolkata | Kolkata Knight Riders |
| Sawai Mansingh Stadium | Jaipur | Rajasthan Royals |
| Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium | Hyderabad | Sunrisers Hyderabad |
| Punjab Cricket Association Stadium | Mohali | Kings XI Punjab |
M. A. Chidambaram Stadium:
The M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, also known as the Chepauk Stadium, is located in Chennai and is the home ground of Chennai Super Kings. The stadium has a capacity of 38,000 spectators and has hosted many memorable IPL matches over the years.
Arun Jaitley Stadium:
The Arun Jaitley Stadium, formerly known as the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, is located in Delhi and is the home ground of Delhi Capitals. The stadium has a capacity of 41,820 spectators and has hosted many high-scoring IPL matches.
Wankhede Stadium:
The Wankhede Stadium is located in Mumbai and is the home ground of Mumbai Indians. The stadium has a capacity of 33,108 spectators and has hosted many exciting IPL matches, including the final of the 2011 World Cup.
M. Chinnaswamy Stadium:
The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is located in Bangalore and is the home ground of Royal Challengers Bangalore. The stadium has a capacity of 38,000 spectators and is known for its high-scoring matches and electrifying atmosphere.
Eden Gardens:
The Eden Gardens is located in Kolkata and is the home ground of Kolkata Knight Riders. The stadium has a capacity of 68,000 spectators and is one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world.
Sawai Mansingh Stadium:
The Sawai Mansingh Stadium is located in Jaipur and is the home ground of Rajasthan Royals. The stadium has a capacity of 30,000 spectators and has hosted many thrilling IPL matches over the years.
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium:
The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium is located in Hyderabad and is the home ground of Sunrisers Hyderabad. The stadium has a capacity of 55,000 spectators and has hosted many exciting IPL matches, including the final of the 2017 season.
Punjab Cricket Association Stadium:
The Punjab Cricket Association Stadium is located in Mohali and is the home ground of Kings XI Punjab. The stadium has a capacity of 26,950 spectators and has hosted many high-scoring IPL matches.
IPL Schedule: When Does the IPL Season Take Place?
The Indian Premier League (IPL) season takes place annually between March and May, with each team playing a total of 14 matches in the league stage. Here are some key points about the IPL schedule:
- The first edition of the IPL took place in 2008, and the league has been held every year since then.
- The IPL schedule typically runs for about two months, with matches being played every day except for designated rest days.
- The IPL schedule is designed to minimize travel time for teams, with each team playing their home matches at their designated home ground.
- The IPL schedule is divided into two parts – the league stage and the playoffs. The top four teams at the end of the league stage qualify for the playoffs.
- The playoffs consist of Qualifier 1, Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the final. The winner of the final is crowned IPL champion for that season.
- The IPL schedule is subject to change based on various factors, including international cricket schedules and other unforeseen circumstances.
IPL Points Table: How Do Teams Earn Points?
The IPL points table is a crucial aspect of the league, as it determines the standings of the teams in the league stage and the playoffs. Here are some key points about how teams earn points in the IPL:
- Each team earns two points for a win in the league stage. In case of a tied match, each team earns one point, while no points are awarded in case of a loss.
- If two or more teams finish with the same number of points at the end of the league stage, the net run rate (NRR) is used to determine their position in the IPL points table.
- The NRR is calculated by subtracting the average runs per over scored by a team in all matches from the average runs per over conceded by that team in all matches.
- In case the NRR is the same for two or more teams, the team with the higher number of wins in the league stage is placed higher in the IPL points table.
- The top four teams at the end of the league stage qualify for the playoffs, with the team with the most points placed at the top of the IPL points table.
IPL Playoffs: How Do Teams Qualify and What Happens Next?
The Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs consist of four matches – Qualifier 1, Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the final. Here’s a breakdown of how teams qualify for the playoffs and what happens next:
| Match | Teams | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifier 1 | 1st Place Team vs 2nd Place Team | Winner qualifies for the final, loser gets another chance in Qualifier 2 |
| Eliminator | 3rd Place Team vs 4th Place Team | Winner qualifies for Qualifier 2, loser is eliminated |
| Qualifier 2 | Loser of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Eliminator | Winner qualifies for the final, loser is eliminated |
| Final | Winner of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Qualifier 2 | Winner is crowned IPL champion for that season |
How do teams qualify for the playoffs?The top four teams at the end of the league stage qualify for the playoffs, with the team with the most points placed at the top of the IPL points table.
What happens next?
Qualifier 1: The team that finishes at the top of the IPL points table plays the team that finishes second in Qualifier 1. The winner of Qualifier 1 qualifies for the final, while the loser gets another chance in Qualifier 2.
Eliminator: The team that finishes third in the IPL points table plays the team that finishes fourth in the Eliminator. The winner of the Eliminator qualifies for Qualifier 2, while the loser is eliminated from the tournament.
Qualifier 2: The loser of Qualifier 1 plays the winner of the Eliminator in Qualifier 2. The winner of Qualifier 2 qualifies for the final, while the loser is eliminated from the tournament.
Final: The winner of Qualifier 1 plays the winner of Qualifier 2 in the final. The winner of the final is crowned IPL champion for that season.
IPL Fan Base: How Do You Join the Craze?
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is known for its passionate and enthusiastic fan base, with millions of fans following the league from around the world. Here’s a breakdown of how you can join the IPL craze and become a part of the league’s vibrant fan base:
| Ways to Join the IPL Fan Base | Description |
|---|---|
| Attend IPL Matches | Attending IPL matches is the best way to experience the league’s electric atmosphere and become a part of its passionate fan base. You can purchase tickets online or at the stadium box office. |
| Join Fan Clubs | Joining a fan club is a great way to connect with like-minded fans and share your passion for your favorite team. Many IPL teams have official fan clubs that organize events and activities for their members. |
| Follow IPL Teams on Social Media | Following IPL teams on social media is a great way to stay updated with the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content. You can follow your favorite teams on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms. |
| Play Fantasy IPL | Playing Fantasy IPL is a popular way for fans to engage with the league and compete with each other. You can create your own fantasy team and earn points based on the performance of the players in the actual matches. |
| Wear IPL Merchandise | Wearing IPL merchandise is a great way to show your support for your favorite team and become a part of the league’s fan base. You can purchase IPL merchandise online or at the stadium stores. |
| Watch IPL Matches on TV | Watching IPL matches on TV is a convenient way to follow the league and stay updated with the latest action. The matches are broadcasted on various TV channels and streaming platforms. |
IPL Merchandise: Where Can You Get IPL Merch?
IPL merchandise is a great way for fans to show their support for their favorite teams and players. Here’s a breakdown of where you can get IPL merchandise, including team-specific merchandise and other items:
| Store | Type of Merchandise | Price Range | Teams Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPLT20.com | Jerseys, Caps, T-shirts, Accessories | INR 299 – INR 3,499 | All 8 Teams |
| Amazon.in | Jerseys, Caps, T-shirts, Accessories, Equipment | INR 199 – INR 4,999 | All 8 Teams |
| Flipkart.com | Jerseys, Caps, T-shirts, Accessories | INR 199 – INR 3,999 | All 8 Teams |
| Myntra.com | Jerseys, Caps, T-shirts, Accessories | INR 399 – INR 2,799 | All 8 Teams |
| Official Team Stores | Jerseys, Caps, T-shirts, Accessories | INR 299 – INR 3,499 | Team-Specific |
Note: Prices may vary depending on the type of merchandise and availability.
Apart from these stores, you can also get IPL merchandise and tickets at the stadium during the matches. You can also avail of discounts and savings on IPL merchandise and tickets by using AskmeOffers, a coupon and deals website that offers discounts on various products and services, including IPL merchandise and tickets.
IPL TV Broadcasts: Where Can You Watch the Matches?
The Indian Premier League (IPL) is one of the most-watched cricket tournaments in the world, with millions of fans tuning in to watch the matches live. Here are some key points about where you can watch the IPL matches on TV:
- In India, IPL matches are broadcasted on the Star Sports network, which includes channels like Star Sports 1, Star Sports 2, Star Sports Hindi, Star Sports Tamil, Star Sports Telugu, and Star Sports Kannada.
- In the United States, IPL matches are broadcasted on the Willow TV network.
- In the United Kingdom, IPL matches are broadcasted on the Sky Sports network.
- In Australia, IPL matches are broadcasted on the Fox Sports network.
- In South Africa, IPL matches are broadcasted on the SuperSport network.
- In Canada, IPL matches are broadcasted on the Hotstar network.
- In the Middle East and North Africa, IPL matches are broadcasted on the beIN Sports network.
- In other countries, IPL matches are broadcasted on various local and international sports channels.
IPL Live Streaming: How to Watch IPL Matches Online
In addition to TV broadcasts, IPL matches can also be watched online through live streaming platforms. Here are some key points about how to watch IPL matches online:
- Hotstar: Hotstar is the official online streaming partner of the IPL in India. Fans can watch the matches live on Hotstar’s website or mobile app. Hotstar offers both free and premium plans, with the premium plan providing access to live streaming and other exclusive content.
- Willow TV: Willow TV is the official online streaming partner of the IPL in the United States. Fans can watch the matches live on Willow TV’s website or mobile app. Willow TV offers various subscription plans, including a monthly plan and an annual plan.
- Sky Go: Sky Go is the official online streaming partner of the IPL in the United Kingdom. Fans can watch the matches live on Sky Go’s website or mobile app. Sky Go is available to Sky TV subscribers.
- YuppTV: YuppTV is an online streaming platform that offers live streaming of IPL matches in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Fans can subscribe to YuppTV to watch the matches live on their website or mobile app.
- BeIN Sports: BeIN Sports is the official online streaming partner of the IPL in the Middle East and North Africa. Fans can watch the matches live on BeIN Sports’ website or mobile app. BeIN Sports offers various subscription plans, including a monthly plan and an annual plan.
IPL Fantasy League: How to Play and Win Big
The IPL Fantasy League is a game that allows fans to create their own virtual teams consisting of real IPL players and earn points based on their performance in the actual matches. Here’s a breakdown of how to play and win big in the IPL Fantasy League:
| Step | Description | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Create a team | Pick players who are in form and have a higher chance of performing well in the upcoming matches. Keep an eye on injury updates and team changes. |
| 2 | Join or create a league | Join public leagues or create private leagues with friends or colleagues. The more participants in a league, the higher the chances of winning big. |
| 3 | Participate in contests | Participate in various contests and challenges offered by the IPL Fantasy League platform to earn rewards and prizes. |
| 4 | Monitor your team’s performance | Keep track of your team’s performance and make changes to your team if necessary. Use the available substitutions wisely. |
| 5 | Earn points and win big | Earn points based on the performance of the players in the actual matches. The higher the points earned, the higher the chances of winning big. |
Tips for Winning Big in the IPL Fantasy League:
- Pick in-form players who have a higher chance of performing well in the upcoming matches.
- Keep an eye on injury updates and team changes, as they can have a significant impact on a player’s performance.
- Use the available substitutions wisely, especially during double-header matches or when a player is not performing well.
- Join public leagues or create private leagues with friends or colleagues to increase your chances of winning big.
- Participate in various contests and challenges offered by the IPL Fantasy League platform to earn rewards and prizes.
IPL Betting: Is It Legal and How Does It Work?
Betting on IPL matches is a popular activity among fans, but it is important to understand the legal and ethical implications of such activity. Here are some key points about IPL betting:
- Legal Status: Betting on IPL matches is illegal in India, except in states where it is regulated by law. However, it is legal in some other countries where gambling is allowed.
- Types of Bets: There are several types of bets that fans can place on IPL matches, including match winner, top batsman, top bowler, total runs, total wickets, and more.
- Betting Platforms: There are several online and offline platforms that offer IPL betting, including bookmakers, betting websites, and mobile apps. However, fans should be cautious when using such platforms as they may not be legal or safe.
- Risks and Consequences: Betting on IPL matches can have legal and ethical consequences, including criminal charges and financial losses. Fans should be aware of the risks involved and should not engage in illegal or unethical activities.
IPL Records: Who Holds the Most Runs, Wickets, and More?
The IPL has witnessed some phenomenal performances by players over the years. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key IPL records, including the players who hold them:
| Record | Player | Team | Runs/Wickets | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Most Runs in IPL | Virat Kohli | RCB | 6,515 | 2008-2021 |
| Most Wickets in IPL | Lasith Malinga | MI | 170 | 2009-2020 |
| Highest Individual Score in IPL | Chris Gayle | RCB | 175* | 2013 |
| Best Bowling Figures in IPL | Alzarri Joseph | MI | 6/12 | 2019 |
| Most Sixes in IPL | Chris Gayle | RCB, KXIP | 351 | 2009-2021 |
| Most Hat-tricks in IPL | Amit Mishra | DC | 3 | 2008-2021 |
| Most Catches in IPL | Suresh Raina | CSK | 102 | 2008-2021 |
| Fastest Fifty in IPL | KL Rahul | KXIP | 14 Balls | 2018 |
| Fastest Century in IPL | Chris Gayle | KXIP | 30 Balls | 2013 |
| Highest Partnership in IPL | Chris Lynn and Gautam Gambhir | KKR | 184 | 2017 |
Note: The records mentioned above are up to IPL 2021.
IPL Controversies: A Look at Some of the Biggest Controversies in IPL History
The IPL has been marred by several controversies over the years, with allegations of corruption, match-fixing, and conflict of interest. Here’s a breakdown of some of the biggest controversies in IPL history:
- IPL Spot-Fixing Scandal: In 2013, three Rajasthan Royals players, Sreesanth, Ajit Chandila, and Ankeet Chavan, were arrested on charges of spot-fixing during IPL matches. The scandal led to the suspension of the players and the termination of their contracts with the team.
- Conflict of Interest Controversies: Several IPL team owners and officials have faced allegations of conflict of interest, including BCCI president N. Srinivasan, who was also the owner of Chennai Super Kings, and former Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, who was the mentor of Delhi Daredevils while also serving as the coach of the India A and U-19 teams.
- Cheerleaders Controversy: The use of cheerleaders during IPL matches has been a controversial topic, with allegations of sexism and objectification. In 2012, the Maharashtra government banned the use of cheerleaders during IPL matches, citing cultural sensitivity.
- Harbhajan-Sreesanth Slapgate Incident: In 2008, Mumbai Indians player Harbhajan Singh was accused of slapping Kings XI Punjab player Sreesanth during an IPL match. The incident sparked controversy and led to Harbhajan’s suspension for the remainder of the IPL season.
- Lalit Modi Controversies: Former IPL commissioner Lalit Modi has been involved in several controversies over the years, including allegations of financial irregularities, nepotism, and conflict of interest. Modi was eventually banned from cricket administration for life by the BCCI in 2013.
IPL 2021: A Recap of the Latest Season, Including Highlights and Results
The IPL 2021 season was held in India from April 9 to May 30, 2021, but was postponed due to COVID-19 cases within the teams’ bio-bubbles. Here’s a brief recap of the season, including highlights and results:
- Teams: The tournament featured eight teams, including Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Sunrisers Hyderabad.
- Venues: The matches were played across six venues in India, including Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru.
- Highlights: Some of the highlights of the season included Royal Challengers Bangalore’s unbeaten streak at the start of the season, Delhi Capitals’ consistent performance, Punjab Kings’ big-hitting batsmen, and some outstanding individual performances by players such as KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Harshal Patel, and Avesh Khan.
- Results: Before the tournament was postponed, Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings were leading the points table, followed by Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians.