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RCB’s Rise, CSK’s Fall In Brand Value: A New Chapter In IPL’s Unpredictable Journey

Sakshi Sharma

Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni (Source:@IPL,x.com)Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni (Source:@IPL,x.com)

In a surprising turn that no one could have predicted till last year, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have overtaken Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to become the most valuable franchise in the Indian Premier League (IPL). This massive change is not just about money or titles; it marks a bigger shift in how cricket is played, followed, and run in the modern age.

Three years ago, RCB was $17 million behind CSK in brand value. Today, they lead by $34 million. That is a massive $51 million turnaround. 

But what does it mean for the future of the IPL? Is this change good or bad for the league, the fans, and cricket itself?

The answer is mixed, but there is a reason to believe this change is more positive than negative, if managed wisely.

RCB’s Long-Awaited Breakthrough

RCB’s journey to the top was not quick or easy. After 17 seasons of heartbreak, they finally lifted their first IPL trophy in 2025. This victory was not just a moment of celebration. After years of being the 'nearly-there' team, their hard work and patience finally paid off this season. And this win is a turning point for the franchise, its fans, players and overall for the cash-rich league. 

RCB had always been popular, thanks to big-name players and a loyal fan base. But they had never quite delivered on the field. Once they did, everything changed for them. Merchandise sales exploded like never before. Sponsorships poured in. Their digital content and fan engagement hit new heights. 

This success shows one important thing that is performance matters now more than anything. Winning games, and especially winning titles, has a direct impact on brand value in today’s IPL. 

But not everything about this shift is positive....

The Danger of Short-Term Thinking

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is a franchise that has defined consistency, leadership, and legacy in the IPL. With a team that has given so much to the tournament lost its top spot after just one poor season. A single bad year was all it took to unwind years of commercial dominance.  

This change has raised concerns for all franchises. Is brand value now too tied to short-term results? Can one bad season erase years of good business and community building? 

It would not be wrong to say that CSK's drop in brand value is a warning. If legacy can be erased so quickly, teams may start to panic after every setback. Due to this massive shift, there is a risk that franchises will now focus too much on instant results, that is, chasing trends instead of building strong foundations. 

This development can also lead to unstable management decisions, short-sighted player deals, and a loss of identity, none of which are good for the sport.

Moreover, with this change, loyal fans may feel hurt. Teams like CSK have built deep connections with communities over many years. A fall from the top does not just impact numbers; it also affects emotions, pride, and loyalty. When brand value rises and falls too sharply, it risks turning cricket into just another business, losing the soul that makes it special.

A Positive Shift With Careful Steps Ahead

As a cricket lover, who’s followed the IPL from its earliest days, this shift feels both exciting and a little risky. On one hand, RCB’s rise is a story of hope, for fans, for players, and for franchises trying to break through. On the other hand, CSK’s drop shows how fragile things can become when brand value is tied too tightly to short-term results.

Overall, in general, this is a positive step; but only if IPL franchises understand what’s really changed. This is no longer a league where history alone guarantees success. It is a tournament where every season, every performance, and every fan interaction matters.

The IPL’s new era is here. It is faster and more competitive. And that is not something to fear, it is something to embrace. But as the league grows, it must remember its roots. Cricket is still at the heart of it all. And if that remains the focus, this disruption will only make the IPL stronger.