BPL 2026 Rescheduled to May, Set to Clash with IPL and PSL

The Bangladesh Premier League 2026 Scheduling Shift

The 2026 BPL season is facing a disruption due to Bangladesh’s general elections, expected in early 2026, following directives from Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus to complete preparations by December 2025. 

The BPL chairman, Mahbub Anam, announced after an emergency board meeting at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium that May 2026 is a viable alternative slot, aligning the BPL with the IPL and PSL’s traditional April-May window. This potential clash, combined with the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in February, is co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.

How the BPL 2026 in May clashes affect IPL and PSL 

The BPL, launched in 2012, has grown into a significant platform for Bangladeshi cricketers to present their talent while generating quite a revenue. According to the sources, in the recent editions Bangladesh Premier League has generated revenues of $10-15 million, valued at approximately $4.8 million. While not as financially robust as the IPL, it has attracted international stars like Moeen Ali and David Miller, which has improved its profile.

BPL vs IPL

On the other side of the border, IPL is a giant in the T20 Leagues all around the world with generating revenue in billions, approximately over $6 billion, with media rights worth $6.2  billion. IPL is undoubtedly the most watched and cash-rich league in the world, valued between $10.9 and $16.4 billion in 2025. Due to its high pay, media coverage, and popularity, top overseas players are attracted to the Indian continent. 

Even the IPL’s mid-level players’ salary is far exceeding the BPL’s top contracts; Tamim Iqbal’s INR 42 lakh makes it the preferred destination. However, this could limit the BPL’s ability to secure high-profile overseas players, potentially reducing its competitive quality. A concurrent BPL could force players to choose between leagues, especially those not picked in IPL auctions.    

In 2024, more than 620 million viewership has been recorded for the IPL, which dwarfs the BPL’s more modest audience. A scheduling clash significantly lowers the viewership for the BPL, as fans prioritize the IPL’s star-studded matches. Sponsors, too, may hesitate to invest heavily in the BPL if it competes directly with the IPL’s lucrative market. However, the BPL’s focus on local talent and growing digital presence could carve out a niche, especially among Bangladeshi fans, mitigating some losses.

BPL vs PSL

Speaking of PSL (Pakistan Super League), which has shown growth over the years, valued at approx  $6 million, with revenues generating around $5 billion or so, facing financial issues and worldwide criticism for its lack of facilities. In 2025, the Pakistan Super League's latest season clashed with the IPL due to the Champions Trophy, and now, another clash with BPL 2026 and IPL 2026 will increase the problems for the PSL. 

PSL has struggled to attract the International stars' presence in the league with lucrative IPL salaries. The BPL’s presence in May 2026 could further split the pool of available international talent, as seen in 2025 when the PSL benefited from signing players overlooked by the IPL. The three-way clash will definitely affect the PSL overseas players' demand, especially if the BPL offers competitive contracts.  

Then comes viewership, in which PSL has earned some loyal viewership, especially in 2024, in which more than 150 million viewership was recorded on all platforms, including digital. A concurrent BPL could fragment viewership, particularly in South Asia, where cricket fans may split their attention. However, the PSL’s strong digital presence and passionate fan base could help it retain viewers, especially if it maintains high-scoring matches on batting-friendly pitches like Karachi and Rawalpindi, unlike the BPL’s slower wickets. 

But according to some media reports, BPL has also been working on rebranding its value and preparing some new venues for the upcoming  2026 season. Currently, BPL organises matches at Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet. The BCB is considering adding new stadiums in Bogura, Khulna, Barishal, and Rajshahi. 

Next, PSL has been facing criticism on its lower player salaries and contracts, facilities, and poor management.  The 2026 clash with IPL and BPL, including the ICC’s T20 World Cup, will affect the PSL 2026. The BPL’s growing sponsorships and broadcast deals could further challenge the PSL’s financial model and its brand value.