By BCCI confirms IPL to remain in India, dismisses overseas shift rumors
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that the Indian Premier League (IPL) will not be staged overseas. Speculation arose about a possible shift to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to the upcoming General Elections in India.
BCCI secretary Jay Shah clarified to Cricbuzz that the entire league will be held in India, dispelling any rumors of moving it abroad. “No, it won’t be moved overseas,” Shah told Cricbuzz on Saturday (March 16).
Reports had suggested that some IPL teams had requested a relocation of matches due to the elections, with claims that BCCI members were exploring holding the second half of the IPL in the UAE. However, Shah’s statement has put an end to these speculations.
With the polling dates confirmed by the Election Commission of India, scheduled from April 19 to June 4 in seven phases, the BCCI is expected to release the full IPL schedule. Currently, only the dates for the first 21 games, from March 22 to April 7, have been announced. The IPL will commence with a match between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Iyer joins Kolkata Knight Riders
Shreyas Iyer left for Kolkata on Saturday to join his teammates at the Kolkata Knight Riders. Rumors had circulated regarding Iyer’s availability for the IPL as he did not participate in the final two days of the Ranji Trophy in Mumbai due to back pain.
Despite concerns about his fitness, scans reportedly showed no significant issues, clearing him to participate in the IPL from the beginning. This assessment is shared by KKR officials, who anticipate his involvement from the start.
The Knight Riders will begin their season with a home fixture against SunRisers Hyderabad at Eden Gardens on March 23.
