IPL 2025: Cricket fans across India are in for a big change as the much-loved free streaming of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to be curtailed. With IPL 2025 just around the corner, JioHotstar— the new entity formed after the merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar— has announced a shift to a paid subscription model, restricting free access to matches.
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No More Free IPL Streaming – JioHotstar to Roll Out Subscription Plans
What’s Changing in IPL 2025 Streaming?
Since 2023, IPL fans enjoyed free streaming of matches on JioCinema, thanks to Viacom18 acquiring digital rights for the tournament. However, following the merger between Star India and JioCinema, the newly established JioHotstar will take charge of IPL’s digital streaming and other sporting events. Reports suggest that a hybrid model will be adopted, where users can watch limited minutes for free before being prompted to subscribe.
JioHotstar Subscription Plans for IPL 2025
JioHotstar will introduce tiered subscription plans for IPL streaming, ensuring that fans must pay to enjoy full matches. The expected pricing details are:
- Basic Plan: ₹149 (with ads, limited features)
- Premium Plan: ₹499 (ad-free experience for three months)
These plans not only cover IPL but also grant access to various other sporting events and entertainment content available on JioHotstar.
Why Has JioHotstar Introduced Paid Streaming?
The decision to implement a paid model stems from the evolving digital streaming landscape and the immense valuation of IPL media rights. Viacom18 had previously secured IPL’s digital rights for ₹20,500 crore, while Star India acquired television rights for ₹23,575 crore. The merger between the two giants has now led to a consolidated strategy to monetize IPL viewership through subscriptions.
How Will This Impact IPL Fans?
- No Completely Free Streaming: Unlike the past two years, where JioCinema offered IPL for free, users will now need a subscription after the initial free minutes expire.
- Better Streaming Experience: JioHotstar promises enhanced features like 4K streaming, AI-powered insights, multi-angle viewing, and real-time stats overlays.
- Expanded Content Library: Subscribers will also get access to other premium tournaments, including the English Premier League (EPL), Indian Super League (ISL), and the Winter Olympics.
When Does IPL 2025 Start?
While an official schedule from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is awaited, reports indicate that IPL 2025 will kick off on March 22, with an exciting opening match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at Eden Gardens.
The transition to paid streaming marks a major shift in how IPL is consumed digitally. While JioHotstar aims to provide a superior viewing experience, fans who have enjoyed free access for years might find this change challenging. However, with competitive pricing and premium features, JioHotstar hopes to retain and grow its user base in the evolving digital streaming market.
FAQs
Will IPL 2025 be free to stream on JioHotstar?
No, IPL 2025 will follow a hybrid model with limited free minutes, after which a subscription will be required.
What are the JioHotstar subscription plans for IPL 2025?
The basic plan costs ₹149 with ads, while the premium plan costs ₹499 for an ad-free experience for three months.
