Some of the latest reports have suggested that the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) can possibly be hosted outside India with Sri Lanka and UAE expected to the possible hosts. It has also added that the BCCI is looking forward to CC’s final word on the fate of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
After COVID-19 hit the world, the IPL 2020 which was scheduled to commence on March 29 was suspended by the BCCI until further notice. However, the pandemic also had an effect on the fate of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2020 as it was scheduled to be held in the October-November window remained hung. Apart from that, the BCCI has been hoping to schedule the IPL in the September-October window.
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But with 229,041 active COVID-19 cases in India, it would be difficult for the nation to host the mega tournament in India. In this regard, in a recent conversation with IANS, a BCCI official ave a hint that IPL could be staged outside India this year. The report also added that BCCI is awaiting for the ICC’s final word on the fate of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup before taking a decision on IPL 2020.
Describing the same to IANS, the BCCI official said, “We are yet to decide on the venue but in all probability, it is going outside this year. The condition in India doesn’t look suited to have so many teams come in at one or two venues and then create an atmosphere which will be safe for the players as well as the general public even though the games may be played behind closed doors.”
He further added, “The race is between UAE and Sri Lanka and we will need to decide on where we host the league depending on the situation there with regards to the coronavirus pandemic. Logistics also need to be looked into, so we will decide soon.”
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Meanwhile, Sri Lanka welcomed back competitive cricket on Monday after their government lifted the nationwide lockdown last week.