Hyderabad | September 8, 2025
Cricket fans across India will soon have to shell out more to watch their favorite teams live at stadiums. From *September 22, 2025, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on *IPL match tickets will rise from 28% to 40%, making ticket prices significantly higher.
How Much More Will Fans Pay?
To put the change into perspective:
- A ticket priced at ₹1,000 earlier cost ₹1,280 after 28% GST.
- Now, with *40% GST, the same ticket will cost *₹1,400.
This price hike is expected to impact not only premium category seats but also the general stands, where fans traditionally look for affordable options.
Why Has the GST Rate Been Increased?
According to government sources, the revision aligns with efforts to bring sports and entertainment events under a higher tax slab, citing increased revenue requirements. While officials argue that the move will boost tax collections, sports analysts believe it could discourage live match attendance and affect the atmosphere in stadiums.
Impact on IPL Franchises and Fans
- Franchises: Teams may see a dip in stadium attendance, though broadcasting and digital revenues are expected to remain stable.
- Fans: The middle-class audience, which forms a bulk of IPL stadium crowds, may reconsider attending multiple matches.
- Hospitality sector: Hotels, food vendors, and transport providers near stadiums may also feel the pinch if footfall reduces.
Industry experts warn that if live attendance declines, it could affect the IPL’s overall brand value, even though TV and OTT streaming continue to dominate revenue streams.
What’s Next for Cricket Lovers?
Fans may shift their preference towards watching matches on TV or OTT platforms rather than spending heavily on tickets. Some suggest that franchises might introduce discount packages or loyalty passes to retain stadium audiences despite the tax hike.
Key Highlights
- GST on IPL match tickets increased from 28% to 40% starting September 22, 2025.
- A ₹1,000 ticket will now cost ₹1,400 instead of ₹1,280.
- The move aims to boost government revenue but may reduce stadium attendance.
- Franchises may explore fan-friendly offers to minimize the impact.