some franchise owners did float the idea of shifting the IPL (or at least parts of it) permanently abroad, especially after the success of UAE editions in 2014 and 2020.
Here’s the breakdown:
🗣️ What Have Franchise Owners Said?
🟨 Mumbai Indians (Reliance)
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After the 2020 UAE edition, where MI won their 5th title, insiders from the franchise appreciated the professionalism, infrastructure, and global exposure of hosting abroad.
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They didn’t publicly push for a full shift, but sources suggested they were open to a hybrid model — part-India, part-overseas.
🟪 Kolkata Knight Riders (Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies)
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KKR’s ownership, especially with global ambitions (KKR owns teams in the CPL and ILT20), has long championed IPL going global.
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Co-owner Venky Mysore once hinted at the possibility of overseas legs becoming more regular, especially to tap into new markets and fans.
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They even backed the idea of a permanent IPL-style league in the UAE — foreshadowing their involvement in ILT20 (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders).
🟩 Rajasthan Royals
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The RR ownership, which includes overseas investors, liked the South Africa edition in 2009 (they won that year!) and praised the professionalism.
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RR has pushed for international academy setups and global fan outreach, supporting more overseas involvement.
🔍 Why Would They Support It?
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Global brand building – More visibility in regions like the Middle East, UK, and Africa.
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Top-notch infrastructure – Especially in the UAE (e.g., Dubai Sports City, ICC Academy).
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Massive expat markets – A built-in cricket-loving audience abroad.
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Weather reliability – Unlike Indian monsoons, UAE offers a dry desert climate.
🚫 But Why Hasn’t It Happened?
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BCCI and fans want IPL in India – It's still primarily an Indian domestic league.
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Sponsors and state associations depend on home matches for revenue.
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Logistics and political implications of long-term foreign hosting.
🔮 TL;DR:
Yes — franchise owners like KKR and RR have supported or explored the idea of more overseas IPL. While no one has openly pushed for a full permanent shift, many see future editions having international legs, especially in the UAE or new cricket hubs.
Want a mock proposal of what a "Hybrid IPL" might look like — with matches split across India, UAE, and even the UK or US?