Amidst speculations of a potential shift, the second half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the year 2024 may find a new home in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as per a Times of India report. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly exploring the feasibility of organizing the remaining matches in the UAE, especially with the Lok Sabha election 2024 anticipated around the same period. While the official dates for the IPL are yet to be disclosed, it is anticipated to occur in April and May, coinciding with the expected announcement of election dates by the Election Commission on Saturday, March 16.
A BCCI official, quoted by TOI, stated, “The Election Commission of India will announce the election schedule on Saturday at 3 pm. After that, the BCCI will decide whether should be moved to Dubai. Currently, a few top BCCI officials are in Dubai to explore the possibility of organizing the second half of the IPL in Dubai.” Despite these discussions, the BCCI maintains its stance that the IPL will remain in India.
Reports suggest that certain IPL teams have already collected players’ passports as a precautionary measure in anticipation of potential relocation during the general elections. However, the BCCI has reiterated its commitment to hosting the IPL within India.
Recalling the circumstances of the Covid outbreak, the previous edition of the IPL was conducted in the UAE, with matches held across three venues – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
The excitement for the upcoming 17th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) intensifies as defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) gear up to kickstart the tournament on March 22. The season opener will witness a clash between CSK and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in a thrilling South Indian derby at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium.
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