IPL 2026: The Indian Premier League (IPL), which has become a financial juggernaut across the world, was ranked third in the latest rankings released by
the World Cricketers' Association (WCA). According to WCA rankings released on Thursday, the IPL (62.6) is ranked third out of the 10 leagues, behind England's The Hundred (75.2) and South Africa's SA20 (68).
The world's richest T20 league got the maximum points in terms of average pay and payment reliability. However, when it came to the right to organise and dispute resolution mechanisms, the league fell short.
WCA Chief Executive Tom Moffat said on Thursday that while the rise in domestic competitions has benefited cricket, it is equally important to ensure players are properly supported and looked after.
"The growth of the domestic leagues landscape has been overwhelmingly positive for our sport, but it has the potential to be even better," he said.
"We want all sanctioned leagues to be successful, and to provide fair protections and standards for people within them. "
IPL 2026: Scrutiny Ahead Of New Season
The IPL faced scrutiny earlier this year after Mustafizur Rahman was released by the Kolkata Knight Riders amid geopolitical tensions in the region.
Additionally, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has drawn criticism for its rule preventing centrally contracted male players from participating in overseas franchise leagues.
The 19th season of the Indian Premier League begins on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru set to host 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad in the opening match.
WCA Ratings Of Leagues
The ratings of all ten leagues are as follows:
- The Hundred - 75.2
- SA20 - 68
- IPL - 62.6
- BBL - 62.5
- PSL - 48
- MLC - 43
- ILT20 - 39.1
- CPL - 38.9
- Abu Dhabi T10 - 30.1
- BPL - 22.6
