Soon after IPL announced 34 major brands for its new season, BCCI announced Paytm as the official umpire partner for the new season. 

Speaking on the development, Mr. Rajeev Shukla, Chairman of the IPL, said, “Paytm are presently the Title Sponsors of India Cricket and the relationship has now been extended to the IPL. Both Paytm and BCCI share a strong bond and we will continue to provide great value to Paytm.”

Mr. Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder and CEO of Paytm, said, “We are delighted to be the IPL Umpire Partner for the next five years. Cricket has been a key element in Paytm's brand journey and it has worked brilliantly for our young brand. In addition to IPL, we are also the Title sponsor for India cricket for the last few years. We had a great relationship with the BCCI, and our investment in IPL further reaffirms our commitment to this wonderful sport.”

The IPL which is going to see its 11th season in 2018, this time will be welcoming back former champions Chennai Super King and Rajasthan Royals after they completed their two-year suspension for their part in the 2013 spot-fixing saga. 

The matches will be played at nine venues, across 51 days from April 7 to May 27, 2018. Wankhede Stadium will be hosting the final this time around between the winner of Qualifier 1 and the winner of Qualifier 2, on May 27. 

The upcoming edition of the cash-rich league will feature 12 matches that will be played at 4:00 PM IST and 48 matches will start at 8:00 PM IST.