With the upcoming general elections and the Indian government denying security, UAE has emerged as an alternate venue along with South Africa to host the Indian Premier League (IPL).
It is learnt that the Indian board will give a presentation to Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) for facilitation to hold IPL matches. But South Africa still remains as a preferred venue for BCCI.
The chief executive of the ECB, David East has confirmed to Gulf News that BCCI is yet to contact them but if they do so they will try their best to be ready for the event.
However, a final decision on the venue will be taken in the IPL Governing Council meeting and then ratified by the Working Committee on February 28 in Bhubaneshwar.
The IPL for this year has been slotted between April 9 and June 3 and the general elections could be over by May 11. Ranjib Biswal, the chairman of the IPL governing council has stated that this might force the first stage of the event to either of these countries.
Biswal further stated that the last leg of the tournament will be played in India, which means eight franchises will have to play at least 10 of their 14 league matches either in South Africa or UAE. The final schedule will be drawn once the Election Commission announces the poll dates.
UAE would be more cost-effective considering the proximity to India. Moreover, UAE has excellent practice facilities with three world-class stadiums.
