IPL Tickets Get Pricier as GST Jumps to 40%: Cricket fans in India will soon have to shell out more money to watch the Indian Premier League (IPL) live. The government has hiked GST on premium sporting events from 28% to a steep 40%. This move puts IPL tickets in the same top tax bracket as casinos, race clubs, and luxury goods.
According to official guidelines, the GST hike applies to “admission to casinos, race clubs, any place having casinos or race clubs, or sporting events like the IPL.”
What the New GST Means for Fans
The new tax rates kick in from 22 September 2025 and are part of a larger GST reform that targets high-value, discretionary spending.
Here’s how the math works:
- Earlier, a Rs 1,000 ticket attracted 28% GST, which meant fans paid Rs 1,280.
- Now, with the 40% rate, the same ticket will cost Rs 1,400.
- That’s a straight Rs 120 jump for every Rs 1,000 spent – or about a 12% higher effective cost.
Price Breakdown: Old vs New
Here’s a look at how the hike changes ticket prices across different brackets:
Read More
- Rs 500 ticket: Rs 700 (up from Rs 640)
- Rs 1,000 ticket: Rs 1,400 (up from Rs 1,280)
- Rs 2,000 ticket: Rs 2,800 (up from Rs 2,560)
The 40% tax now applies across the board for IPL tickets and other premium sporting events. The government has made it clear that these are being treated as non-essential or luxury entertainment.
Beyond GST: Other Costs Still Apply
For those heading to the stadium, remember this is just the GST part. Add-on expenses like stadium service charges and online booking fees can push ticket prices even higher.
Interestingly, while the government specifically mentioned the IPL, it’s still unclear if leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) or the Indian Super League (ISL) will also be hit with the same 40% rate.
Read More
What About India’s International Matches?
Here’s some relief for fans of Team India: international matches are unlikely to be affected by this new GST slab. Tickets for India’s games and other recognised sporting events will continue under the standard 18% GST, and those priced below Rs 500 remain exempt.
So, if you’re planning to cheer for India in upcoming matches, your pocket won’t feel the extra pinch.
What’s Next on India’s Cricket Calendar
There’s plenty of action lined up. India will first play in the ACC Asia Cup in the UAE, followed by a two-match Test series against the West Indies at home starting 2 October 2025.
ALSO READ: IPL 2026: AB de Villiers Announces His Return For RCB
