Watching the IPL live has become more expensive after the Government of India increased the goods and services tax (GST) on IPL tickets from 28% to 40%. For example, a ticket with a base price of INR 1000 will now cost INR 1400 instead of the previous INR 1280. This places IPL tickets in India’s highest GST bracket, alongside casinos and race clubs.
The change, however, could benefit fans attending other cricket matches in the country. Previously, tickets for international cricket matches attracted the same 28% GST as IPL tickets. According to the Press Information Bureau’s latest circular, the new tax rate applies specifically to “sporting events like the IPL.” Finance and business publications have interpreted this to mean that international matches may now be classified differently, potentially attracting lower GST rates.
Currently, other recognised sporting events charge 18% GST on tickets priced over INR 500, while tickets below INR 500 are exempt. With this adjustment, tickets for international cricket matches and state-run leagues could become cheaper. For instance, a ticket with a base price of INR 1000 would now cost INR 1180 instead of INR 1280 after taxes.
The new GST rules will take effect from September 22, a week before the Women’s World Cup begins in India. The tickets for the tournament have not yet gone on sale. On August 30, the ICC encouraged fans to “register your interest” to ensure they receive updates and ticketing information directly in their inbox.
This tax revision makes IPL match tickets costlier but opens the possibility for more affordable tickets for other cricket events, providing some relief to fans planning to attend international matches in India.
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