Sports: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced today that discussions will be held to determine the optimal schedule for the completion of the currently suspended T20 League. This development follows the cessation of hostilities on the India-Pakistan border.
The league was abruptly halted on Friday with sixteen matches remaining on the calendar. This decision was made as escalating tensions along the border, triggered by the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor, threatened to engulf the region in a larger conflict.
BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla addressed the situation, stating, “The war has stopped. In the new situation BCCI office bearers, officials and IPL Governing Council, will discuss the matter tomorrow (Sunday) and take a call. We will see which can be the best schedule to complete the tournament.” His remarks, captured by PTI Videos, signal a proactive approach by the board in light of the improved geopolitical landscape.
Earlier speculations suggested a potential shift of remaining league matches to the southern cities of Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. However, Shukla indicated that this option was primarily considered during the active military conflict. “That was an option when war was going on. There are many options which have been discussed. The ceasefire has just been announced, give some time to us, we will discuss and then only a decision will be taken,” he clarified.
Sources within the IPL, familiar with the logistics of broadcasting and production, suggest that a widespread relocation of venues is now less likely. The picturesque Dharamsala, however, might see its scheduled match moved due to the ongoing closure of its airport. The match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala was abandoned mid-game on Thursday as the border situation deteriorated, forcing players and staff to undertake a lengthy journey to Delhi via bus and train.
Looking at the remaining league fixtures, Ahmedabad is slated to host three matches, while Lucknow and Bengaluru each have two. Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Jaipur are each scheduled to host one game. The status of the abandoned Dharamsala match remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from a resumption from the point of interruption to a complete restart.
The play-off stages of the tournament are currently planned for Hyderabad and Kolkata, with the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata designated as the venue for the final showdown. Notably, a significant number of international players participating in the league have already departed the country in light of the earlier security concerns.
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