Sony reveals that IPL 10 has already crossed the total viewership IPL 9 received

The Indian Premier League (IPL) enjoys popularity not just in India but over the world, for it brings together the best in the business from across the globe. Each year, the sponsors, advertisers and broadcasters enjoy huge monetary profits from the cash-rich tournament. Into its tenth year, the IPL broadcaster – Sony Pictures Networks India (SPN) has said that after only the first 32 matches of this season thus far, it has already crossed the last year’s viewership figures with 363.9 million viewers.

In the ninth edition, Sony attracted 361 millions throughout the length of the tourney. The popularity and viewership of the tournament is growing further as the contest is intensifying and the IPL is heading towards the business end where the teams are now fighting to the best of their abilities to book a spot in the playoffs.

“VIVO IPL 2017 continues to grow and has achieved a cumulative reach of 363.9 million in the fourth week of the tournament as compared to last year’s reach of 314 million after 32 matches,” SPN said in a statement.

The top performing markets thus far are Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal and Gujarat. Talking of metros, Delhi and Mumbai take the lead. An average viewer spends an approximate of 64 minutes on each game this year, which is higher than last year’s 53 minutes, the broadcaster added.

Huge sixes, brilliant run outs, super-overs, last over finishes, they’re all part of the show. IPL is three and a half hours of frenzied action, screaming fans and fancy cheerleaders. All of this attracts lots of viewers. Not to forget, the tournament also introduces us to the future stars of Indian cricket.

Speaking at the opening of IPL 10 recently, former India captain and Mumbai Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar said, “When IPL was introduced in India, we knew it would be a success. But nobody could imagine the magnitude of its accomplishments over the last ten years.”

Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore enjoy utmost popularity among the teams. With Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals returning to the fore next year, one can only expect the viewership to increase further.