IPL poses health risks to players, PSL deemed environmentally safer: UK report

London: The UK-based organisation BASIS has revealed in a recent report that the Indian Premier League (IPL) is increasingly becoming a health risk for players due to extreme heat and poor air quality.

According to the report, during IPL 2025, 27 out of 65 matches were played in temperatures ranging from 32°C to 39°C, while 9 matches were held in dangerously high temperatures between 39°C and 51°C, raising the risk of heatstroke and cramps.

Air quality was also a major concern. Not a single IPL 2025 match met the criteria for healthy air. Out of 75 games assessed, 34 were played in poor air quality conditions (AQI 100–150) and 5 at unhealthy levels (AQI 150–200).

In contrast, the report found that the Pakistan Super League (PSL 2025) was played in safer environmental conditions. 17 PSL matches were held in temperatures below 26°C, and only 2 matches experienced heat levels considered critical. Most PSL games are played in moderate temperatures and cleaner air, making it relatively safer for players.