Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has kicked off with its innovative Green Dot Ball initiative, where the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), in partnership with Tata Group, pledges to plant 500 trees for every dot ball bowled.
Unlike previous seasons, when the campaign was limited to playoffs and finals, this year it began right from the opening match, signaling a bold step toward environmental sustainability.
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In 2023, the initiative debuted during the IPL playoffs, with 84 dot balls in the Gujarat Titans vs. Chennai Super Kings Qualifier 1 leading to 42,000 saplings planted.
Over the past two seasons, the BCCI planted around 4 lakh trees, transforming dot balls—typically a bowler’s pride—into a win for the planet. The 2025 opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Kolkata Knight Riders saw 77 dot balls, translating to 38,500 trees.
IPL’s scorecard now swaps the usual dot for a tree graphic, catching viewers’ attention and sparking eco-conscious buzz. Beyond cricket, this move sets IPL apart, blending high-octane sport with meaningful impact.
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Unlike other tournaments, like the ICC World Cup 2023, where DP World gifted sports gear to grassroots cricketers for every team century, IPL’s green campaign runs throughout its 74-match season, potentially adding lakhs of trees to India’s landscape.
Read more: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Lucknow Super Giants: IPL 2025 Match 21 Preview and Predictions
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While batters chase runs, bowlers are quietly greening the nation. By season’s end, India could see a massive boost to its green cover, proving IPL’s influence extends far beyond the stadium.