We might witness 1,000 sixes, 300 runs in an innings, and a 275-run chase in IPL 2025: Robin Uthappa

As the 18th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) approaches, former Indian cricket players Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Lakshmipathy Balaji, and Hanuma Vihari offered their perspectives on how the league has changed cricket, developed talent, and established new standards.

The experts considered the league’s influence and future prospects, from developing elite athletes to becoming a worldwide sporting event.

Using players like Tilak Varma, Yashavi Jaiswal, and Rinku Singh as examples, who all gained entry into the Indian teams as a result of their IPL exploits, Raina emphasised how the IPL has influenced Indian cricket and given young players a chance to succeed at the international level.

“IPL is a festival, not just in India but also in other countries. We have witnessed numerous athletes develop their skills and make the move to the global scene. In addition to winning the T20 World Cup, the Champions Trophy, and the World Cup, India has seen young players develop into captains. Observe the numerous fast bowlers who came out of the league, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. A fascinating new generation of cricket players is emerging now. I adore Rinku Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Tilak Varma. In addition, we have Axar Patel as our new captain,” Raina told JioStar.

“The most crucial things for young players are to remain consistent, stay present, and concentrate on their game. You are eligible to represent your nation if you score 500 runs in a season. Each season of the IPL offers a chance to develop, gain confidence, and enhance your skills and disposition. Raina went on to say, “That’s what the IPL is all about—stepping up on big occasions and continuously raising your game.”

The IPL has changed cricket over the last 17 seasons, stretching the game’s limits like never before, according to former Indian opener Uthappa. He also said that following a record-breaking season in which teams surpassed the 250-run barrier several times, the 300-run barrier might be broken in the upcoming season.

The IPL has elevated cricket by two or three levels over the past 17 seasons, giving it a completely new dimension. The pace of change has been so quick that some people are finding it difficult to stay up. Cricket used to have a certain romance, but these days, that romance has changed to something more intense, fast-paced, and heart-pounding. The IPL has matured into the unquestioned “daddy” of T20 leagues around the world. Although it seems like we’ve seen it all, I have no doubt that there is still a lot more to come. Innovation has been the key to the IPL’s success.

We may see 1,000 sixes this season, a club that scores 300 runs in an innings, or even a chase of more than 275 runs.

The IPL has shaped modern cricket not only in India but also globally, according to former India bowler Balaji, who called it a “global brand” similar to the English Premier League and Formula 1.

“Over the last 17 years, the IPL has elevated cricket to a whole new level and established itself as a standard for leagues all over the world.

The world looks to the IPL to see how it develops talent, stimulates the economy, and raises the bar for international cricket. The Indian Premier League, its franchise owners, leadership teams, and the ecosystem they have created deserve a great deal of the credit for India’s two big trophy victories in just six months. The league is now what it is because of their combined efforts.

People all around the world watch, follow, and admire the Indian Premier League, which has evolved into a global brand. Like the English Premier League and Formula 1, the IPL has established itself as one of the biggest sporting events. As an ex-player, coach, and current analyst, I have had the honour of seeing the IPL’s development from the inside out. The IPL has had an absolutely incredible growth from its early days of bilateral series and ICC events to its current status as a worldwide sporting phenomenon.

In the meantime, Vihari discussed the IPL’s expanding impact and commended its function in providing young players with a stage on which to shine. “Well,” he said:

The IPL’s tagline, “Where Talent Meets Opportunity,” sums it up perfectly, and I believe it lives up to its promise. From the league’s inaugural season to the present, a great number of gifted players have been given the chance to succeed and represent their nations, not just India, but the entire world. Some players weren’t well-known at home, but they achieved their dream of playing for their country after establishing themselves in the IPL.

“Many cricket players’ lives have been changed by the IPL, both financially and otherwise. The way we view sports has evolved. The IPL is now a celebration rather than just a cricket match. For two months, spectators are enthralled by nonstop entertainment. I have no doubt that this season will be twice as fascinating as the previous one. Whether it’s in terms of runs, wickets, or new milestones, I’m confident that the 18th season will shatter a lot of records.