Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) co-owner Juhi Chawla has backed former IPL chairman Lalit Modi’s suggestion to shift the tournament to January, questioning the need to stage the competition during India’s extreme summer months. Chawla believes an earlier start would create better playing conditions and improve the experience for players and spectators.
Modi, who was instrumental in the creation of the IPL, recently urged the BCCI to reconsider the tournament’s traditional April-May window. He argued that the league has grown into a major sporting and commercial property and should have greater flexibility in determining its place on the international cricket calendar.
According to Modi, a January start could support the IPL’s long-term growth by addressing concerns around playing conditions, sustainability and broadcast value. He also highlighted the intense summer heat in India during April and May, which can make conditions difficult for players, support staff and spectators.
Chawla responded to Modi’s comments in a post on X, agreeing that the tournament should reconsider its current scheduling. The KKR co-owner felt that the IPL had earned enough influence to shape the cricket calendar and questioned why players and fans should have to endure extreme summer temperatures.
She backed the idea of moving the competition to January, arguing that cooler conditions would offer a better experience for everyone involved.
While a complete shift to January has not been confirmed, the BCCI is reportedly considering an earlier start to the IPL from 2027 to reduce the impact of extreme heat and rainfall on the tournament schedule.
However, a change to the traditional calendar would require the board to assess the wider international cricket schedule and the availability of players.
Whether the BCCI adopts Modi’s proposed January window or opts for a smaller adjustment remains to be seen. For now, Chawla’s support has added another prominent voice to the debate over when the IPL should be played.
