Amid concerns of scheduling conflicts with the General Elections, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly considering shifting the second half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Sources indicate that BCCI officials are currently in the UAE, exploring the feasibility of relocating the remainder of the IPL to the Gulf nation.
The looming announcement of the election schedule by the Election Commission of India on Saturday has prompted discussions within the BCCI regarding the potential move to Dubai. Franchises have reportedly instructed players to keep their passports ready, hinting at the possibility of a venue change.
Notably, the first half of the IPL 2014 was also staged in the UAE due to similar scheduling conflicts with General Elections.
Earlier, the BCCI had unveiled the schedule for the first half of IPL 2024, comprising 21 matches. The final game of this segment is slated for April 7, with Lucknow Super Giants squaring off against Gujarat Titans.
Meanwhile, the tournament opener on March 22 will witness defending champions Chennai Super Kings, led by MS Dhoni, locking horns with the star-studded Royal Challengers Bangalore in Chennai. The initial weekend will feature two double headers, with Punjab Kings facing Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders taking on Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday, followed by Rajasthan Royals meeting Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans clashing with Mumbai Indians on Sunday.
In a strategic move, the Delhi Capitals have opted to play their first two home matches in Visakhapatnam, hosting Chennai Super Kings and Kolkata Knight Riders on March 31 and April 3, respectively, at the port city’s venue.