The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has achieved a remarkable milestone in television viewership, setting a new benchmark by attracting over 40 crore viewers for its live broadcasts. Aired on the Star Sports network, the matches witnessed a substantial surge in viewing figures, with a staggering total of 12,380 crore minutes watched across 18 matches. This marks a notable 15 percent increase in watch time compared to the previous season.
In comparison to the 2023 season, where the viewership for 18 matches stood at 36.4 crore, this year’s figures not only demonstrate a significant uptick but also represent the highest cumulative audience reach in IPL history. Furthermore, TV ratings (TVR) for the IPL have surged by 17 percent over the past year, underscoring a robust and expanding fan base for the cricket extravaganza on television.
A statement released by Disney, the broadcaster of the IPL, hailed this surge in viewership as a testament to the unwavering love and support from fans for watching IPL matches on TV. They believe these numbers underscore the immense popularity of the tournament among audiences year after year.
One of the key factors contributing to the broader reach and positive response this season is the introduction of Indian Sign Language feeds in the broadcasts. This initiative, coupled with the integration of AI technology, has not only diversified the audience but also enhanced the inclusivity of the viewing experience for all.
On the digital front, JioCinema, the official online streaming platform for the IPL, has also witnessed significant growth. On the inaugural day of the tournament alone, the platform recorded over 11.3 crore viewers, marking a remarkable 51 percent surge compared to the opening day of the previous season. Additionally, JioCinema, now broadcasting the IPL for its second consecutive year, logged over 59 crore video views and a staggering 660 crore minutes of watch time on the opening day alone.
