Cricket Has Become A New Driving Force For Travel.

Skyscanner's new report reveals that cricket influences travel patterns across India, with 47 per cent of Indians planning to use Skyscanner and watch live matches. The study shows that cricket is evolving into a travel motivator, with fans extending their stays and exploring cities after matches.

Destinations like Mumbai and Australia emerge as favourites, while tools like fare alerts and flexible calendars are aiding travel planning. Skyscanner's latest Pitch Perfect Journeys report reveals that nearly half of the Indian travellers are planning trips around live cricket matches within the country and abroad, underscoring cricket's growing influence on travel destinations. The findings reveal that cricket is not merely a sport, but a cultural phenomenon that influences travel priorities.

Of those surveyed, 80 per cent are looking forward to watching an Indian Premier League match live, and over half intend to extend their stay by 3 to 4 days to explore local attractions. The rise of cricket marks a blend of sport and leisure, with destinations chosen not only for their stadiums but also for their cultural offerings.

Mumbai emerged as the top Indian city for cricket tourism, attracting 1 in 5 travellers. Australia leads the chart internationally, followed by England, New Zealand, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Notably, the Chennai Super Kings garnered the most loyal travelling fan base, with nearly 30 per cent willing to travel to support the team.

According to the report, fans prefer travelling with friends, followed by family and partners. Practical factors such as stadium access, accommodation costs, and relaxed visa norms influence travel decisions. Among stadiums, Mumbai's Wankhede remains the most sought-after venue, with 55 per cent expressing interest in experiencing its atmosphere, which is followed closely by Kolkata's Eden Gardens and London's Lords.

Mohit Joshi, Travel and Destinations Expert at Skyscanner, said, "Cricket-fuelled travel is clearly on the rise; Indians are planning match-based trips with careful attention to cost, access, and shared experiences, using tools like Price Alerts and flexible search calendar."

Social media personality and cricket enthusiast Trana Singh adds, "The match is only half the experience. Thoughtful planning helps me catch the game and make the most of the destination, whether through red-eye flights or curated itineraries around match days.”

From local street food to sightseeing, fans are making cricket trips more than just a game-day affair, turning them into immersive travel experiences.