The opening weekend of the 18th edition of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) has shattered viewership records across JioHotstar and Star Sports Network, marking a historic start for the tournament. With a combined watch time of 4,956 crore minutes, JioStar has set unprecedented benchmarks, delivering an exceptional cricketing experience across both TV and digital platforms.
On JioHotstar, the first three matches of IPL 2025 saw a 40% increase in digital viewership compared to last season, with a 54% rise in connected TV (CTV) consumption. The platform recorded 137 crore views, with a peak concurrency of 3.4 crore and a staggering 2,186 crore minutes of watch time.
In addition, TV viewership also saw remarkable growth, according to BARC data, with over 25.3 crore viewers tuning in and 2,770 crore minutes of watch time. The first three matches generated a 22% year-on-year increase in TV viewing time, and the average TVR (Television Viewership Rating) surged by 39%.
Sanjog Gupta, CEO of Sports at JioStar, remarked: “The record-breaking viewership across digital and TV platforms over the opening weekend of TATA IPL 2025 reaffirms the tournament’s unmatched popularity bolstered significantly by the wide reach of our platforms and our commitment to creating deeper fan connections, in turn redefining how India experiences sports. With cumulative watch time of 4,956 crore minutes, this season has begun on an extraordinary note. As the tournament unfolds, we look forward to continuing to deliver an inclusive, intuitive, and interactive IPL experience by serving every fan with a suite of customized viewing options, creating unmissable moments, unforgettable stories, and a truly immersive IPL.”
Kiran Mani, CEO – Digital at JioStar, also highlighted: “IPL 2025 is setting a new benchmark for how India engages with live sports and entertainment at an unmatched scale. The opening weekend showcased the power of innovation in creating richer, more interactive experiences, allowing fans to connect with the game like never before. At the same time, our partners are tapping into one of the most engaged audiences ever, driving deeper and more meaningful connections. As we continue to expand IPL’s reach, bringing the game to newer audiences, we move closer to our ambition of lighting up a billion screens and making this season a historic moment in how sports and entertainment are experienced in India.”
For advertisers, the record-breaking viewership further underscores TATA IPL’s unmatched scale and engagement. With over 30 marquee brand partners, including My11Circle, Campa Energy, PhonePe, Amazon Prime, and SBI, JioStar has become the most coveted platform for brands seeking high-impact reach.
JioStar has also redefined the viewing experience with more than 25 feeds in 12 languages, powered by over 170 experts. The platform’s integration of interactive features like live chats, polls, and virtual watch parties turns passive viewing into an engaging, community-driven experience. The MaxView feature enhances this by offering an edge-to-edge display for unmatched clarity.
In addition, IPL 2025 introduces a digital-exclusive Hangout feed, featuring quirky commentary by creators and stand-up comics, along with the new Motu Patlu Presents Super Funday feed, aimed at younger audiences and families. The network is also introducing a second-screen engagement feature, allowing fans to instantly access game highlights via a QR code while watching live on TV.
After a successful ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, JioStar’s IPL 2025 launch has set the stage for an even greater tournament, showcasing the endless possibilities for fans and brands alike.
