Is IPL Rigged? The Spread Of Conspiracy Theories
Yuvraj Nanda | Mar 22, 2025, 19:00 IST
Every IPL season sparks heated debates: is the tournament scripted? From questionable umpiring calls to last-over thrillers, conspiracy theories flood social media. While the BCCI dismisses these claims, fans continue to dissect matches, pointing at “fixed” moments. But is there actual proof, or is it just fan paranoia? Let’s break down the biggest IPL rigging theories.
The Indian Premier League is back and so is the hype of T20 Cricket yet again in India. An annual tournament that has almost certainly has become a festival for the country year after year—giving us uncountable moments of happiness, joy, and even sorrows to the fans who invest their heart and soul into the game.
While the event in itself is what brings bliss to the world every year, there are also endless conspiracy theories about the widely loved tournament of sport that try to bring the game’s value down to the ground—with nobody knowing that who benefits from these rumours.
Every IPL season since the outset has been successful at delivering edge-of-the-seat last-over thrillers. While this is great for entertainment, some fans believe that it’s too perfect. Theories claim that the BCCI and franchises manipulate results to maximize TRPs and betting profits.
Take the 2014 IPL final for instance—Kolkata Knight Riders needed 11 runs off the last over. Against all odds, they chased it down. Or even look at Mumbai Indians’ legendary last-ball victories. Critics argue that too many “miracle finishes” indicate that the outcomes are pre-planned to keep the audience engaged.
However, cricket experts argue otherwise. T20 is unpredictable by nature, and with the world’s best players involved, close finishes are bound to happen. But does that silence the skeptics? Not at all.
Controversial umpiring decisions are genuinely nothing new in cricket, but some of the IPL moments have raised serious eyebrows. Fans have pointed out instances where certain teams seem to benefit more from incorrect calls.
A prime example of the same was Thala MS Dhoni storming onto the field in 2019, furious over a questionable no-ball decision. Many people claimed that the decision was deliberately made to add drama and fuel viewership. Similarly, in the 2021 season, an umpiring call against Punjab Kings allegedly favored Mumbai Indians, leading to accusations of bias.
Are these just random human errors, or is there something more sinister that goes into play? As there is no concrete proof of rigging, the pattern of controversial calls keeps these conspiracy theories alive in the minds of a few.
Another popular theory in discussions out there is what suggests that the bigger franchises—like the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings—get preferential treatment because they are the cash cows for the IPL.
Fans even argue that these teams frequently get the best match schedules, slightly easier group-stage fixtures, and favorable decisions during crucial games. Meanwhile, comparatively smaller fanbase teams like Punjab Kings or Rajasthan Royals seem to always be on the receiving end of unlucky decisions.
While this theory makes for good debate, statistics may not fully back it up. Teams like CSK and MI have historically performed better due to strong squads, not necessarily favoritism. However, churning of content and clout from the hype around these cash cows is indeed an annual affair for the broadcasters.
So, is IPL actually fixed? While conspiracy theories may seem a lot fun to discuss, there is no actual hard proof to suggest match-fixing on a large scale in a country like India. Yes, betting scandals have happened (like the 2013 IPL controversy involving Sreesanth), and yes, umpiring errors do exist. But outright scripting of matches? Highly unlikely.
However, as long as last-ball thrillers, unexpected turnarounds, and controversial umpiring decisions continue, fans will always wonder—is the IPL truly fair, or is it just really good entertainment?
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life.
While the event in itself is what brings bliss to the world every year, there are also endless conspiracy theories about the widely loved tournament of sport that try to bring the game’s value down to the ground—with nobody knowing that who benefits from these rumours.
Too Many Last-Over Thrillers – Coincidence or Scripted Drama?
Mumbai Indians celebrating a wicket.
Every IPL season since the outset has been successful at delivering edge-of-the-seat last-over thrillers. While this is great for entertainment, some fans believe that it’s too perfect. Theories claim that the BCCI and franchises manipulate results to maximize TRPs and betting profits.
Take the 2014 IPL final for instance—Kolkata Knight Riders needed 11 runs off the last over. Against all odds, they chased it down. Or even look at Mumbai Indians’ legendary last-ball victories. Critics argue that too many “miracle finishes” indicate that the outcomes are pre-planned to keep the audience engaged.
However, cricket experts argue otherwise. T20 is unpredictable by nature, and with the world’s best players involved, close finishes are bound to happen. But does that silence the skeptics? Not at all.
Questionable Umpiring Calls – Genuine Mistakes or Hidden Agendas?
Virat Kohli arguing with the umpire.
A prime example of the same was Thala MS Dhoni storming onto the field in 2019, furious over a questionable no-ball decision. Many people claimed that the decision was deliberately made to add drama and fuel viewership. Similarly, in the 2021 season, an umpiring call against Punjab Kings allegedly favored Mumbai Indians, leading to accusations of bias.
Are these just random human errors, or is there something more sinister that goes into play? As there is no concrete proof of rigging, the pattern of controversial calls keeps these conspiracy theories alive in the minds of a few.
Big Teams, Big Brands – Do Certain Franchises Get Special Treatment?
An illustration of all IPL jerseys
Another popular theory in discussions out there is what suggests that the bigger franchises—like the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings—get preferential treatment because they are the cash cows for the IPL.
Fans even argue that these teams frequently get the best match schedules, slightly easier group-stage fixtures, and favorable decisions during crucial games. Meanwhile, comparatively smaller fanbase teams like Punjab Kings or Rajasthan Royals seem to always be on the receiving end of unlucky decisions.
While this theory makes for good debate, statistics may not fully back it up. Teams like CSK and MI have historically performed better due to strong squads, not necessarily favoritism. However, churning of content and clout from the hype around these cash cows is indeed an annual affair for the broadcasters.
Final Verdict – Rigged or Just High Quality Cricket?
The trophy.
So, is IPL actually fixed? While conspiracy theories may seem a lot fun to discuss, there is no actual hard proof to suggest match-fixing on a large scale in a country like India. Yes, betting scandals have happened (like the 2013 IPL controversy involving Sreesanth), and yes, umpiring errors do exist. But outright scripting of matches? Highly unlikely.
However, as long as last-ball thrillers, unexpected turnarounds, and controversial umpiring decisions continue, fans will always wonder—is the IPL truly fair, or is it just really good entertainment?
Explore the latest trends and tips in Health & Fitness, Travel, Life Hacks, Fashion & Beauty, and Relationships at Times Life.