What observers say
“Forget Netflix. JioCinema is where it’s at,” declared a fan, encapsulating the growing sentiment among viewers as JioCinema continues to dominate the Indian streaming market. The platform, known for its extensive library of Bollywood movies, shows, documentaries, and live sports, has recently seen a surge in popularity, particularly during the IPL 2026 season.
JioCinema is not just a hub for cinematic content; it has become the go-to destination for live sports, especially with the Indian Premier League (IPL) opener attracting a staggering 10 crore live viewers. This impressive figure underscores the platform’s ability to engage a massive audience, setting it apart from competitors.
The IPL 2026 opener featured Abhishek Sharma, who unfortunately scored only 7 runs before being dismissed by Jacob Duffy. Fans took to social media to express their opinions on the match, with one stating, “As far as I feel, Abhishek’s swashbuckling batting will not last long now.” This sentiment reflects the high expectations and scrutiny faced by players in such a high-stakes environment.
In addition to IPL, JioCinema is also gearing up for the 2025–26 Indian Super League (ISL) season, which will feature 14 clubs and a total of 91 matches. However, the streaming landscape for ISL has shifted; JioCinema previously offered free access to matches, but this has changed with the new season. Now, FanCode has become the exclusive digital home for ISL, streaming every match, typically under a paid model.
Despite the shift, limited free viewing options may still be available through local or regional channels, as well as social media highlights. Fans are eager to catch the action, and many are turning to VPN services to access JioCinema from outside India, as the platform is geo-restricted. “Unblock JioCinema for free from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN,” is a common recommendation among users looking to bypass these restrictions.
ExpressVPN is currently offering a one-year subscription for £82.82, a 49% discount off the list price, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee. This makes it an attractive option for international fans eager to enjoy Indian content, including the IPL and ISL.
As the IPL season progresses, fans will continue to voice their opinions on players and matches. One fan controversially stated, “Unpopular opinion: Ishan Kishan is better than a blind slogger like Abhishek,” highlighting the passionate debates that sports can ignite among viewers.
With JioCinema’s growing influence and the changing dynamics of sports streaming in India, the platform is poised to remain at the forefront of the industry. Details remain unconfirmed regarding future content offerings, but the trajectory suggests a continued rise in viewership and engagement.
