The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is planning to resume the Indian Premier League (IPL) from May 16 and extend the tournament until May 30, the Indian Express reported. The current season was halted following its week-long suspension due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. According to the IE report, three venues are being contemplated for the remaining matches, namely Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
The report further quoted BCCI sources saying a revised schedule will be shared with IPL franchises by Sunday night. The IPL final, originally scheduled for May 25, is now expected to be played on May 30 to accommodate the remaining 12 matches, including the playoffs.
“As the IPL was suspended for a week, there is a possibility of the IPL final now being played on May 30 instead of May 25. The schedule will be sent to all teams by tonight,” a source from the board told IE.
The report further stated that with only two weeks available to conclude the tournament, the BCCI is expected to schedule more double-headers to ensure timely completion.
The BCCI has asked all teams, except Punjab Kings, to reach their designated venues by Tuesday. Franchises have also been instructed to coordinate with their overseas players, many of whom returned home after the suspension and arrange their return travel.
Earlier today, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal told Indian Express that efforts are underway to start the suspended season “immediately”. “We need to work out the venue dates and everything, and we would now be speaking to all the stakeholders, including team owners, broadcasters, and everyone involved and find a way as to how to move forward. Most importantly, we will have to consult with the government,” IE quoted Dhumal as saying.