IPL Tickets: How to Book, 40% GST and Refund Rules
IPL tickets attract 40% GST since 22 September 2025, when the GST Council’s rate changes (often called GST 2.0) came into force. Earlier the rate was 28%. So a ticket with a base price of ₹1,000 now costs ₹1,400 before booking fees. This guide explains how the tax is calculated, how it compares with other sports, and what happens to your money if a match is cancelled.
GST rate on IPL tickets
| Event | GST on tickets |
|---|---|
| IPL matches | 40% (from 22 Sep 2025; earlier 28%) |
| Recognised sporting events (for example, government-approved international cricket matches), ticket up to ₹500 | Exempt |
| Recognised sporting events, ticket above ₹500 | 18% |
IPL admission is classified under “recreational, cultural and sporting services” and was placed in the new 40% slab along with casinos, race clubs and betting. Other leagues and events are taxed at lower rates, so check the ticket’s tax line if you’re comparing.
How the final price is calculated
| Base ticket price | GST at 40% | Price with GST |
|---|---|---|
| ₹800 | ₹320 | ₹1,120 |
| ₹1,000 | ₹400 | ₹1,400 |
| ₹2,500 | ₹1,000 | ₹3,500 |
| ₹5,000 | ₹2,000 | ₹7,000 |
Ticketing platforms also charge a convenience or booking fee, with GST on top. Check the final amount on the payment page. The “starting from” price shown on posters is often the base price.
How to book IPL tickets online
- Find the official ticketing partner. Each season, the IPL and each franchise announce where tickets are sold, on iplt20.com and the team’s official website and social accounts.
- Sign in on that app or website and pick the match, stand and number of tickets. Sales usually open in phases, and popular matches sell out within minutes.
- Check the final amount (base price + 40% GST + booking fee) before you pay.
- You’ll get an e-ticket or QR code, or instructions to collect a physical ticket. Keep the ID you booked with. Some venues check it at entry.
Playoff and final tickets usually go on sale only once the venues are confirmed, often just a few days before the match. For how the playoffs work, see the IPL playoff format.
Refunds if a match is cancelled or washed out
- Who decides: refunds are governed by the ticket terms of the franchise and its official ticketing partner (named on the IPL and team websites), not by a single government rule.
- Match abandoned without a ball bowled, or cancelled: ticket terms usually provide a refund of the ticket price. Whether booking fees are refunded depends on the platform’s terms.
- Rain-shortened match: if play starts, tickets are generally not refundable, even if the match is shortened.
- You can’t attend: IPL tickets are generally non-refundable and non-transferable. Only buy from official sellers. Resold tickets can be rejected at the gate.
- GST on a refund: when the full ticket price is refunded, the GST charged on it is refunded with it, because the supply is cancelled.
Refunds normally go back to the original payment method automatically. The platform will say how long it takes.
Tips to keep costs down
- Compare stands: GST is a percentage, so the gap between cheap and premium stands widens after tax.
- Use the official ticketing app or website only. Unofficial sellers add hidden mark-ups and risk fake tickets.
- Keep your booking confirmation and ID ready. See IPL stadium entry rules and stadium parking.
Frequently asked questions
Why is GST on IPL tickets 40% but lower for other matches?
The GST Council placed IPL-type events in the 40% “luxury and sin” slab. Recognised sporting events stay at 18%, with tickets up to ₹500 exempt.
Can I claim GST input credit on IPL tickets?
Generally no. Entertainment and admission expenses are blocked credits for most businesses under GST law.
Does the 40% apply to IPL 2027 tickets too?
Yes, unless the GST Council changes the rate. Check the tax shown at checkout.
Sources: GST Council, CBIC, IPL official website. General information, not tax advice. Always read the ticket terms on the official ticketing platform.