The Indian government has introduced a new GST rule on Wednesday, September 3. This is called GenNext GST. While most goods and services are now cheaper, there is bad news for cricket fans. Watching matches at the stadium will now cost more.
From September 22, 2025, cricket match tickets will attract 40 per cent GST. Earlier, the rate was 28 per cent. This means tickets for India’s home matches and the Indian Premier League (IPL) will now be more expensive. The base tariff of IPL 2026 tickets for will not change, but the total cost will rise sharply because of higher taxes.
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Fans will also need to pay entertainment tax. This is charged by state governments. For example, if a Chennai Super Kings ticket costs INR 1000, the entertainment tax in Tamil Nadu is 25 per cent. This makes the ticket INR 1250. Now, GST at 40 per cent will be added on this amount. The final price will be INR 1750. If fans book online, platforms like BookMyShow and District will also charge a convenience fee. This can make the ticket almost double the base price.
The new rules, however, are not the same for all tickets. If the base ticket price is below INR 500, the GST will be only 18 per cent. This is a relief for fans who buy cheaper tickets. For example, if a ticket costs INR 400, the entertainment tax in Gujarat is 20 per cent. That makes the ticket INR 480. After adding 18 per cent GST, the price becomes INR 566.40. With convenience fees, fans may pay around INR 650. Earlier, this ticket would cost at least INR 700.
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This will help fans who go to Test matches, where tickets are usually cheaper. At Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, a Test match day ticket costs as low as INR 125. In Bengaluru, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium offers tickets for INR 150.
The new GST rule has created a mixed situation. Some fans will pay more, while others will save. But in a cricket-loving country like India, stadiums are still expected to remain full.
FAQs
From when will the new GST rates on cricket tickets apply?
The new GST rates will be effective from September 22, 2025.
What is the GST rate on cricket tickets now?
The GST rate is 40 per cent for tickets above INR 500 and 18 per cent for tickets below INR 500.
Will IPL tickets become costlier?
Yes, IPL tickets with a base price above INR 500 will become more expensive due to the higher GST.
Do fans have to pay entertainment tax along with GST?
Yes, entertainment tax is charged by state governments and will be added before GST.
Are cheaper tickets for Test matches affected?
No, cheaper tickets below INR 500 will now attract only 18 per cent GST, which is lower than before.
Will online ticket booking increase the cost further?
Yes, platforms like BookMyShow and District add a convenience fee, making the final price higher.
