Reports: BCCI to seek government's advice to stage IPL 2020 in Maharashtra or UAE

The fate of the Indian Premier League (IPL) this year is still hanging in balance even as the BCCI has reportedly began its preparations to stage the tournament. While it all depends on the postponement of the T20 World Cup which seems to be inevitable, IPL Governing Council is said to have discussed the possible schedule and venue in the meeting held on Friday.

Various speculations are being made over the IPL taking place this year. It was also reported that Maharashtra and the UAE have emerged as top contenders to host the cash-rich league. The T20 extravaganza is unlikely to happen in India given its current condition due to COVID-19. However, it has been now learnt that the BCCI will submit two proposals to the government over hosting the IPL and will seek advice from them.

If the T20 league is to be held outside India, then Dubai is the strongest contender to host it given the ease with which the overseas players can be flown in. “Since Dubai is a frequent port of transit for international travel, flying in international cricketers will be a lot easier in Dubai, as opposed to India,” a source was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

Once ICC postpones T20 WC, BCCI will take the call

The BCCI is eagerly waiting for the ICC to postpone the T20 World Cup and soon after, the board is expected to take a call on the IPL. It is expected to be a curtailed tournament this year with the double headers to be played on most days and not only on weekends. The source also informed that Mumbai and Pune have four venues together which might lead to them hosting the IPL but they will need the state government’s approval for the same.

Moreover, Maharashtra is the worst-hit state by Coronavirus in the country and it remains to be seen if the BCCI is willing to take the risk. “Both proposals, of staging the IPL at four venues in Mumbai-Pune as well as taking it to UAE will be put forth. A final decision will be taken based on government’s advice. If the ICC calls off the T20 World Cup, the IPL Governing Council will meet and take a call,” the source added.