Ananya Lohia , Mumbai - As the Indian Premier League 2026 is one the most followed competitions in the world, and with each passing year, the interest around the tournament continues to rise. With T20 cricket known for its fast-paced nature, concerns are now emerging over the length of matches in the ongoing IPL 2026. Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has called on the BCCI to ensure the format stays true to its quick and engaging identity.

Gavaskar pointed out that T20 cricket was designed to be completed in around three hours, offering fans a sharp and entertaining experience. However, several IPL matches this season have stretched well beyond that window, with delays caused by slow over rates, extended strategic timeouts, and frequent on-field interruptions. Just for reference, the IPL 2026 game between the Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru lasted for four hours and 22 minutes, despite there being no need for a Super Over. The World Cup winner also mentioned that only a limited number of reserve players and support staff should be allowed to enter the playing area, unnecessary sight of reserve players stepping onto the ground to give a bottle of water to the fielder near the boundary should not be allowed. At strategic timeout, it's often sees half a dozen others on the ground, including the batters who are next into bat. The format is meant to be crisp,” Gavaskar noted, urging the BCCI to enforce stricter time regulations and maintain discipline during matches.

Gavaskar comments serve as a timely reminder that while innovation and entertainment are key to the IPL’s appeal, they must not come at the cost of the game’s natural flow. Moving forward, the BCCI will need to strike a careful balance to ensure the league remains both exciting and structurally sound.