GST 2.0 | Cricket and IPL fans, here’s what your match-day experience could cost under new rates

Cricket fans will soon have to spend more to enjoy the thrill of watching an IPL match from the stands. The central government has increased GST on tickets for premium sporting events like the Indian Premier League from 28 per cent to 40 per cent.

The price hike translates into a noticeable pinch for fans. A Rs 1,000 ticket that earlier cost Rs 1,280 with GST will now set spectators back Rs 1,400--a Rs 120 increase. Likewise, a Rs 500 ticket will cost Rs 700 instead of Rs 640, while a Rs 2,000 ticket has gone up to Rs 2,800 from Rs 2,560.

Here’s the revised breakdown:

Rs 500 ticket → Rs 700 (up from Rs 640)

Rs 1,000 ticket → Rs 1,400 (up from Rs 1,280)

Rs 2,000 ticket → Rs 2,800 (up from Rs 2,560)

Watching IPL is the new luxury

With IPL tickets now falling into the 40 per cent GST slab, the government has effectively classified watching the league live as a luxury. This places match-day viewing alongside casinos, betting and tobacco in the highest tax bracket. Inside the stadium, grabbing a snack will also reflect the new tax rules. Salted or spiced popcorn--whether sold loose or packed--will be taxed at 5 per cent, while caramelised popcorn will attract 18 per cent. From 22 September, aerated drinks with added sugar, caffeinated beverages and other non-alcoholic drinks will move to the 40 per cent slab, up from 28 per cent earlier.

Regular international and domestic cricket matches, however, remain at 18 per cent GST, and tickets under Rs 500 stay exempt--shielding grassroots cricket from the steep hike that targets premium leagues like the IPL.

While cricket fans face higher costs, movie-goers enjoy some relief. Cinema tickets priced up to Rs 100 will now draw just 5 per cent GST with input tax credit, down from 12 per cent. Tickets above Rs 100 remain taxed at 18 per cent.

What it means for cricket fans

For spectators, the higher GST is only part of the expense. Stadium service charges, online booking fees and other add-ons will push match-day costs even higher. The revised rates kick in from 22 September 2025, just as India gears up for the Asia Cup in the UAE and a home Test series against the West Indies.

IPL fans will certainly feel the pinch, but international cricket remains outside the 40 per cent slab--a small consolation for millions of Indian supporters.