T20 cricket has revolutionized the game, introducing fun, entertainment, and international fan involvement. Franchise-based leagues are springing up all around the globe, and the battle between these leagues has never been more intense. Here is the list of top 10 best cricket leagues in the world.
1. Indian Premiere League (IPL)
The Indian Premier League (IPL) biggest cricket league. It was started in 2008 and has the maximum viewer base, the largest financial support, and the finest players across the globe. With some of the biggest corporations and Bollywood stars owning franchises, the IPL provides high-impact cricket, great entertainment, and record-breaking player auction deals.
Started: in 2008
Cricket Board: BCCI
Value: $11 Billion
2. SA20
After some initial failures with various leagues, the board of Cricket South Africa (CSA) eventually got it right with a T20 league in the form of the SA20 in 2023. The six SA20 franchises are owned by owners of the Indian Premier League. SA20 fans have enjoyed the SA20 atmosphere, and the competition has been top-notch due to the inclusion of a rash of world’s top T20 players.
Sunrisers Eastern Cape have captured both SA20 tournaments to date.
3. Big Bash League (BBL)
The Big Bash League (BBL) of Australia comes in second, with its family-oriented format and crowded stadiums. The competition is composed of local Aussie players and overseas legends, providing a competitive and energy-packed environment. The innovation of the BBL, such as the Power Surge and Bash Boost conditions, makes it the second best cricket league in the world.
4. The Hundred
A comparatively new format, The Hundred, which was introduced in 2021, has picked up speed very quickly. Although it has a slightly different format with 100-ball innings, it still manages to draw the best international cricketers. Its innovative marketing strategy and attempts to attract a younger crowd make it a unique competition.
5. Pakistan Super League
Pakistan Super League (PSL) has quickly gained popularity since its launch in 2015. With avid supporters and best international cricketers, PSL provides exciting matches. The strength of the league is the quality of local Pakistani players, particularly its world-class fast bowlers.
6. Carribean Premiere League
The CPL, or “the biggest party in sport” as most refer to it, is all about the Caribbean experience for T20 cricket. The quick-paced atmosphere, loud fan base, and aggressive cricket make it the most thrilling of the leagues. It has stars such as Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, and Dwayne Bravo and guarantees fireworks at the stadium.
7. Lanka Premiere League
Lanka Premier League (LPL) has infused new life into Sri Lankan cricket. Even though it is a new league, comparatively, it has gained the attention of international celebrities and exposed local players to much-needed glory. With the history Sri Lanka has in cricket, LPL is slowly making its presence felt.
8. Bangladesh Premiere League
The BPL succeeds in making overseas players who are not members of other larger franchise leagues attracted to the league. Kyle Mayers and Shoaib Malik have sparkled the BPL. The first season of the BPL was contested in 2012. The most successful team in the BPL is Comilla Victorians with four trophies.
9. UAE T20 League
The UAE’s International League T20 (ILT20) is picking up pace with major investment and top-class players. With its prime location and the support of IPL franchises, ILT20 has the potential to emerge as a prominent T20 hub.
10. Major League Cricket
Cricket is growing in the USA, and Major League Cricket (MLC) is leading the charge. Backed by investment from IPL franchises and an increasing cricket fan base, MLC is looking to make cricket a reality in North America. Success for the league could signal a new dawn for the sport in the region.
Final Thoughts
The expansion of T20 leagues across the globe is evidence of the format’s massive popularity and commercial success. Although IPL is still the gold standard, other leagues are rapidly catching up with them, providing exciting cricket and novel experiences for fans. As the game grows, these leagues will continue to expand further, ensuring that T20 cricket is the pulse of global cricketing entertainment.
Also Read:
- List of Most T20i Hundreds in International Cricket
- List of Fastest Centuries in T20 International Cricket
- List of ICC Champions Trophy Winners (1998-2025)
