The chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Arun Dhumal, has expressed optimism regarding potential investments from Saudi Arabia aimed at enhancing cricket infrastructure in India. However, he clarified that the league has not yet received any formal proposals for a 'Grand Slam' T20 circuit or direct financial involvement in the tournament.

In recent years, the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation (SACF) has strengthened its relationship with the IPL, with state-backed entities like Aramco, Visit Saudi, and Neom securing sponsorship agreements with the league and its franchises. Additionally, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opted to hold the mega auction for IPL 2025 in Jeddah last year.

According to reports from ESPNCricinfo, the World Cricketers' Association (WCA) is reportedly in discussions to establish a global T20 tournament circuit, a concept that has garnered support from SURJ, the sports arm of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). There are also indications that PIF is considering a multi-billion-dollar investment in the IPL.

Dhumal, who previously served as the BCCI treasurer, mentioned to ESPNCricinfo that he has not received any concrete information regarding Saudi Arabia's intentions for global cricket. He stated, “It cannot be ‘yes’ or ‘no’ because there is no proposal to be discussed; it is just media speculation. There is nothing that we can do about media speculating.”

While SACF is planning to build an international-standard stadium in Jeddah, the current cricket infrastructure in Saudi Arabia is minimal. Dhumal noted that hosting the IPL mega auction in Jeddah was a strategic move to attract Saudi investment in cricket, reflecting BCCI's commitment to expanding the sport's reach globally.

“Saudi Cricket is part of the ICC,” Dhumal remarked. “They are looking to invest in cricket to enhance its relevance in the region, especially considering the large diaspora from India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. There is a strong demand for increased cricketing activities there.”

He also addressed the speculation surrounding discussions between the IPL, BCCI, and Saudi Cricket regarding their interest in the IPL, firmly denying any such talks. The aim was to provide a glimpse of what the IPL entails, and the impressive figures from the mega auction surprised many regarding the sport's scale.

Dhumal emphasized that this exposure could encourage the Saudi government to invest more in cricket infrastructure, providing local players with greater opportunities. He cited the growth of cricket in the UAE as a model, noting the infrastructure they have developed and their own league.

“It is our responsibility as the BCCI to promote the sport in various regions,” he concluded. “For cricket to flourish globally, it is essential to showcase it in diverse landscapes and territories.”

Additionally, Dhumal expressed openness to the idea of IPL hosting exhibition matches abroad, although discussions with stakeholders are still in the preliminary stages. “If it makes sense for promoting cricket and showcasing the IPL, it can be considered,” he stated, adding that no formal discussions have taken place yet.

Regarding the revival of the Champions League T20, a global T20 club tournament that has been inactive since 2014, Dhumal remarked, “It was initiated before the right time for such an event. I wouldn’t dismiss the idea, but it depends on the availability of time and whether it adds value to cricket on a global scale.”

Eight out of ten IPL franchises have shown interest in participating in overseas leagues, with four owners nearing finalization of investments in The Hundred in England and Wales. Dhumal noted that while IPL leadership supports franchise growth, he does not foresee a shift in the BCCI's strict policy against allowing Indian men's players to participate in foreign leagues.

“We appreciate the contributions made by our franchises and companies to promote cricket globally. Given India's leadership role and cricket's significance to Indians, it is our duty to ensure that India continues to play a pivotal role in the sport's global growth,” Dhumal stated.

On the topic of Indian players potentially joining other leagues worldwide, Dhumal reiterated that with the IPL being a “premium tournament,” its exclusivity will remain intact. “No discussions have taken place so far. If opportunities arise in the future, we will consider all factors before making a decision,” he concluded.