The 18th edition of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) has kicked off in record-breaking fashion, with JioStar Network setting new benchmarks across digital and television platforms. With a staggering cumulative watch time of 4,956 crore minutes, the league’s opening weekend has reaffirmed IPL’s dominance as the premier cricketing spectacle.
Unprecedented Digital Viewership on JioHotstar
JioHotstar saw an explosive rise in digital consumption, with a 40% increase in viewership compared to last season. This surge was driven in part by a 54% rise in Connected TV (CTV) consumption. The first three matches alone garnered an incredible 137 crore views, with a peak concurrency of 3.4 crore and a total watch time of 2,186 crore minutes. This phenomenal response underscores JioHotstar’s ability to engage audiences like never before.
Record-Breaking TV Viewership on Star Sports Network
As per BARC data, television viewership for the opening weekend reached historic heights, drawing 25.3 crore viewers and generating 2,770 crore minutes of watch time—a 22% increase from last year. The average TV rating (TVR) surged by 39%, reinforcing the unwavering popularity of IPL among traditional TV audiences.
Sanjog Gupta, CEO – Sports, JioStar, highlighted IPL’s unprecedented appeal: “The record-breaking viewership across digital and TV platforms over the opening weekend of TATA IPL 2025 reaffirms the tournament’s unmatched popularity. The wide reach of our platforms and our commitment to creating deeper fan connections have redefined how India experiences sports. With a cumulative watch time of 4,956 crore minutes, this season has begun on an extraordinary note. We look forward to delivering an inclusive, intuitive, and interactive IPL experience, creating unmissable moments and unforgettable stories for fans.”
Kiran Mani, CEO – Digital, JioStar, emphasized the digital transformation of sports entertainment: “IPL 2025 is setting new benchmarks for live sports engagement. The opening weekend showcased how innovation can create richer, more interactive experiences, connecting fans with the game like never before. Our partners are reaching an incredibly engaged audience, strengthening deeper and more meaningful brand connections. As we expand IPL’s reach, we move closer to our ambition of lighting up a billion screens and making this season a historic moment for sports and entertainment in India.”
Advertising Powerhouse: A Platform for Brands to Shine
The staggering viewership numbers further cement TATA IPL’s status as the ultimate platform for advertisers. JioStar has partnered with over 30 marquee brands, including My11Circle, Campa Energy, PhonePe, Amazon Prime, SBI, Thums Up, Google Pay, Dream11, Rapido, Parle, Danube, Mutual Funds Sahi Hai, Asian Paints, Carat Lane, and Arun Ice Cream. As advertisers continue to leverage the vast reach of linear TV, JioHotstar’s advanced targeting, personalized ad formats, and deep audience insights are revolutionizing brand engagement in the digital era.
A New Era of Immersive Cricket Entertainment
JioStar’s pioneering approach to sports broadcasting has redefined the IPL viewing experience. With 25+ feeds in 12 languages across Star Sports Network and JioHotstar, powered by over 170 experts, fans are experiencing cricket like never before.
JioHotstar’s interactive features, including live chats, polls, predictions, and virtual watch parties, are transforming passive viewing into a community-driven spectacle. The MaxView feature ensures an edge-to-edge, ultra-clear display, elevating the viewing experience.
Anchored by the campaign ‘Yahaan Sab Possible Hai’, amplified through social media, digital creators, and on-ground activations, this season is pushing the boundaries of sports entertainment.
Innovations to Engage a Wider Audience
This season marks the return of digital-exclusive content like the Hangout Feed, featuring quirky commentary from new-age creators and stand-up comics. Catering to younger audiences and families, the Motu Patlu Presents Super Funday entertainment feed ensures IPL 2025 appeals to fans of all ages.
Additionally, JioStar is launching a second-screen engagement feature, enabling fans to stay connected to every moment of the game. Viewers can scan a QR code on TV to instantly access highlights on JioHotstar, ensuring they never miss a crucial play.
After a spectacular ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, JioStar’s record-smashing opening weekend for TATA IPL 2025 sets the stage for an electrifying season ahead. With limitless possibilities and unparalleled engagement, this edition of IPL is redefining how India watches and experiences cricket.
