IPL’s value soars past $20bn to rival NFL as one of world sport’s biggest brands

• Two big franchise deals power 10.3% increase

• IPL second only to NFL in per-match brand value

The Indian Premier League’s value has surged to an estimated $20.6bn (£15.5bn), boosted by ownership deals involving two of its biggest franchises, according to a report by the investment bank Houlihan Lokey.

The T20 competition’s value rose 10.3% over the past year, underlining its position as one of the world’s most valuable sports brands, it said. “On a per-match basis, only the NFL ranks ahead of the IPL globally,” it added.