Compared to the previous edition, the IPL ecosystem’s value has increased from Rs 87,000 crore to Rs 92,500 crore, representing a growth of approximately 6.3 percent, as stated in a report by D & P Advisory. This year’s IPL ecosystem value shows a relatively modest rise. The Mumbai Indians emerged as the most valuable franchise this year, with a valuation ranging from INR 30,725 crore to INR 33,750 crore.
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) has made a remarkable debut, recording a value of INR 1,250 crore (approximately $150 million), establishing itself as one of the largest women’s cricket leagues globally.
This substantial valuation is predominantly attributed to the league’s impressive media and title rights deals, according to a report by D&P Advisory, a valuation services provider. Furthermore, the WPL secured the Tata Group as its title sponsor for a significant INR 165 crore, spanning five years.
Women’s games, particularly WPL, make big strides
The media rights for the WPL are valued at INR 951 crore over five years, equating to INR 7.09 crore per match. This agreement ranks as the world’s second most valuable broadcast deal for a women’s sports league. The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) leads with a per-season media rights value of INR 185 crore, followed by the WPL at INR 173.4 crore, the Women’s Super League (WSL) at INR 71.4 crore, and the UEFA Women’s Champions League (Women’s UCL) in football at INR 64 crore.
“A particularly striking indicator of the WPL’s success is the cumulative sale proceeds of franchises, amounting to a staggering Rs 4,670 crore. This substantial investment by team owners signals their confidence in the league’s future trajectory. They foresee the WPL not only thriving but also offering significant financial returns in the coming years,” the report said.
“WPL promotes the values of inclusivity and diversity in the cricketing ecosystem. The team’s branding efforts, and fan engagement strategies, have all contributed to its success and popularity. Moreover, the WPL serves as a platform for infrastructure development and grassroots-level talent, bridging the gap between domestic and international cricket and is slated to reach greater heights in the next two or three years,” said Santosh N, Managing Partner of D & P Advisory.
