As Indian Premier League 2026 season moves closer to the playoffs, discussions around the tournament’s entertainment value have intensified. Many fans have expressed concerns that this year’s IPL has not been as exciting as previous editions, and now Harsh Goenka – Chairman of RPG Enterprises and brother of Sanjiv Goenka – has added fuel to the debate with a strong social media post.
Goenka pointed out that IPL television viewership has reportedly declined by 26 percent this season, raising questions about whether audiences are gradually losing interest in the tournament.
‘IPL Has Become a Batting Exhibition’
In his post on X, Harsh Goenka criticized the current nature of the league, suggesting that the balance between bat and ball has disappeared.
According to him, the IPL has increasingly turned into a batting spectacle rather than a genuine cricket contest, with high-scoring matches becoming too frequent.
He argued that cricket becomes most exciting when there is uncertainty and balance, rather than repeated 225-plus totals being scored by both teams.
IPL TV viewership reportedly down 26%. @BCCI should take it seriously as IPL has become a batting exhibition instead of a cricket contest.
A few fixes:
– Balanced pitches where bowlers matter
– Rethink the Impact Player rule
– Stronger fan engagement by franchises
– Better…— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) May 9, 2026
Suggestions Made by Harsh Goenka
Harsh Goenka also proposed several changes that he believes could improve the tournament experience:
More balanced pitches that provide assistance to bowlers
Reconsideration of the Impact Player rule
Better fan engagement initiatives from franchises
Improved stadium facilities, including seating, food, toilets, and accessibility
What Happens Next?
The remarks have already sparked debate among fans and cricket experts, and attention will now shift toward the Board of Control for Cricket in India to see whether any changes are considered in future seasons.
Launched in 2008, the IPL is currently in its 19th edition and remains one of the biggest sporting leagues in the world, despite growing conversations around the need to restore greater balance between bat and ball.
