IPL 2026 ad rates go up by 25-30%, led by Smart TV slots

As the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) kicks off in Bengaluru on March 28, television advertising rates are up by 25-30 per cent compared to 2025. The higher ad rates are largely led by demand around Smart TV or Connected TV (CTV) slots, which offer a more interactive experience compared to linear TV. Ad rates in terms of first ask have increased by 20 per cent for CTV to around ₹600 cost per mille (CPM), whereas linear TV ad rates went up 10 per cent from last year’s rates of ₹1...