Cricket has taken on a new dimension with the rise of franchise T20 leagues in various countries. Fans have embraced the idea of players from different nations competing in the same league.
Over the years, every T20 league around the world has grown in popularity. People frequently discuss and debate which league is the best, often ranking them.
In this article, we will explore the top 9 T20 leagues globally, highlighting their features and providing an overview.
Top 9 T20 Cricket Leagues In The World
Franchise T20 leagues around the world are some of the most popular and eagerly awaited events in cricket. The launch of leagues such as the Indian Premier League, SA20, and Pakistan Super League has greatly transformed the sport.
Here’s a quick look at the Top 9 T20 Leagues in the world,
| League | Country | Established Year | Board | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Premier League (IPL) | India | 2008 | Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) | $18.5 Billion |
| International T20 League (ILT20) | UAE | 2023 | Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) | $15 Million |
| SA20 League | South Africa | 2023 | Cricket South Africa (CSA) | $12.5 Million |
| Big Bash League (BBL) | Australia | 2011 | Cricket Australia (CA) | $10 Million |
| Major League Cricket (MLC) | USA | 2023 | American Cricket Enterprise | $6.9 Million |
| Pakistan Super League (PSL) | Pakistan | 2016 | Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) | $5.7 Million |
| Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) | Bangladesh | 2012 | Bangladesh Cricket Board | $4.8 Million |
| Caribbean Premier League (CPL) | West Indies | 2013 | Cricket West Indies (CWI) | $4.6 Million |
| Lanka Premier League (LPL) | Sri Lanka | 2020 | Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) | $3 Million |
Let’s take a close look at these T20 cricket leagues.
1. Indian Premier League (IPL)
| Established Year | 2008 |
| Hosting Nation | India |
| Number of Teams | 10 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $2.4 Million |
| Period | March to May |
Since its launch in 2008, the Indian Premier League has changed cricket by combining entertainment, sport, and celebrity culture. Featuring top international stars, thrilling matches, and packed stadiums, the IPL quickly became the most popular T20 league in the world. Its format and fan engagement set the standard for other T20 leagues globally.
In recent seasons, the IPL has introduced new rules and expanded digital streaming, reaching millions of fans worldwide. The league continues to draw top players, making it an essential event each year and keeping its status as a major cricket spectacle.
2. International T20 League (ILT20)
| Established Year | 2023 |
| Hosting Nation | UAE |
| Number of Teams | 6 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $700,000 |
| Period | January to February |
The ILT20, launched in 2023, has quickly attracted attention by drawing top international cricketers and hosting exciting matches in first-rate stadiums across the UAE. Its timing in the cricket calendar makes it popular with both local and global fans, allowing it to establish itself as an important T20 league.
In 2025, the league moved to a full player auction system, which boosted competition among teams. New programs, such as tournaments for UAE-based talent, have improved the league’s appeal. This change has helped it grow into a platform for rising stars and international cricket talent.
3. SA20 League (SA20)
| Established Year | 2023 |
| Hosting Nation | South Africa |
| Number of Teams | 6 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $890,000 |
| Period | January to February |
SA20, organized by Cricket South Africa in 2023, revived domestic cricket by introducing IPL-style franchises and drawing in international players. With exciting matches and strong fan involvement, it quickly became South Africa’s leading T20 tournament, providing local players with exposure to top-tier competition.
The 2025 season featured full stadiums and very competitive games. The league keeps improving its player recruitment methods and scheduling. This enhances global visibility and creates a blend of exciting cricket and opportunities for young, up-and-coming talents.
4. Big Bash League (BBL)
| Established Year | 2011 |
| Hosting Nation | Australia |
| Number of Teams | 8 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $450,000 |
| Period | December to January |
Australia’s Big Bash League has, since 2011, attracted national and international attention with its family-friendly stadium atmosphere, exciting hitting, and prime-time scheduling. With teams in major Australian cities and a mix of domestic and international players, the BBL has become a key part of the global T20 calendar.
In recent seasons, the league has set attendance records, secured better broadcast deals, and welcomed fan engagement innovations like kid zones and the “BBL Finals Day” format. In 2025, the league signed its first Indian male international for the season, showing its growing global reach.
As the Big Bash League continues to attract fans from around the world, many viewers also look for ways to enhance the excitement by placing predictions on match outcomes. With the upcoming BBL season expected to be highly competitive, fans seeking trusted platforms to place their wagers can explore betting sites for BBL for better odds and attractive bonuses. These sites offer a variety of markets, allowing fans to follow their favourite teams while enjoying a safer and more informed betting experience.
5. Major League Cricket (MLC)
| Established Year | 2023 |
| Hosting Nation | USA |
| Number of Teams | 6 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $500,000 |
| Period | July |
Major League Cricket started in the USA in 2023 and quickly gained traction by bringing in international talent to converted stadiums. It positioned the U.S. as a developing T20 market. With a diverse fan base and interest from global broadcasters in streaming, MLC is expanding cricket’s reach.
In 2025, the league moved its headquarters to Texas and established its operational base in Grand Prairie. This move signals a long-term commitment to U.S. cricket infrastructure. It also reflects the sport’s growing presence in the Americas and increasing interest from sponsors.
6. Pakistan Super League (PSL)
| Established Year | 2016 |
| Hosting Nation | Pakistan |
| Number of Teams | 6 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $0.7 Million |
| Period | February to March |
Since it started in 2016, the PSL has renewed Pakistan’s domestic T20 scene by bringing in international players, hosting matches at home, and mixing high-stakes cricket with local talent. Its quick commercial growth has increased its global profile among T20 leagues.
In 2025, the league announced plans to grow from six to eight teams and extend its reach across Pakistan, including new host cities. This expansion aims to improve competitiveness, boost media rights value, and raise its profile in the international T20 market.
7. Bangladesh Premier League (BPL)
| Established Year | 2012 |
| Hosting Nation | Bangladesh |
| Number of Teams | 7 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $205,000 |
| Period | January to February |
The BPL started in 2012 as Bangladesh’s main T20 tournament. It offered local talent a chance to shine alongside international stars and drew strong support from fans. Over the years, it has become an important part of the country’s cricket scene and fan culture.
In 2025, the league had its 11th edition but struggled with ongoing payment and logistical problems. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) took charge of player payments directly. This move aimed to protect the tournament’s reputation and support its future growth.
8. Caribbean Premier League
| Established Year | 2011 |
| Hosting Nation | West Indies |
| Number of Teams | 6 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $1.2 Million |
| Period | August to September |
The CPL began in 2013 and quickly became known for its vibrant party atmosphere, calypso soundtrack, lively stadiums, and lightning‑fast T20 action. It has a strong regional identity and has helped develop West Indies players and cricket culture.
In 2025 the league renewed its title sponsorship with Republic Bank for three more years, reaffirming its commercial viability. Fan engagement initiatives and grassroots programs have also been expanded, reinforcing its position as the major franchise T20 event in the Caribbean.
9. Lanka Premier League (LPL)
| Established Year | 2020 |
| Hosting Nation | Sri Lanka |
| Number of Teams | 5 |
| Winning Prize Amount | $0.2 Million |
| Period | July |
The LPL started in 2020 and introduced franchise-style T20 cricket to Sri Lanka. It provided young local players a chance to play alongside international stars and helped bring back interest in local cricket. Its short schedule and famous players made it an attractive part of the global T20 calendar.
In late 2025, the tournament attracted significant international investment when an Indian sports group bought a franchise, showing its rising importance. However, organizers postponed the 2025 edition to prepare venues for the 2026 T20 World Cup, demonstrating a focus on future planning.
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Conclusion: IPL is The Biggest T20 League in The World
T20 leagues have changed how cricket is played and watched worldwide. From the excitement of the IPL to the lively atmosphere of the CPL, each league offers something special for fans. They entertain and provide chances for players to show their skills on a global platform.
These tournaments have connected cricket cultures across countries, letting fans watch both international stars and rising players compete in thrilling formats. The mix of competitive cricket, entertainment, and fan involvement has made T20 leagues essential to modern cricket.
Going forward, these leagues will keep growing, innovating, and inspiring future generations. With broader reach, improved facilities, and global participation, T20 cricket promises unforgettable moments and brings fans closer to the game than ever.
