The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is expected to begin on the 19th of September, with the season opener featuring defending champions Mumbai Indians versus Chennai Super Kings led by MS Dhoni.
However the BCCI now faces issues with the COVID-19 related restrictions in Abu Dhabi. As per reports, the delay seems to occur due to the travel norms currently in place in Abu Dhabi, Capital of the United Arab Emirates which seems to have different set of protocols and provisions when compared to Dubai or Sharjah.
It seems to have come to light that each individual must get a permit and undergo mandatory tests before entering Abu Dhabi. For the players and support staff of the Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders already residing in Abu Dhabi, this scenario presents a major roadblock.
IPL Governing Council Chairman Brijesh Patel and acting CEO Hemang Amin are already in the UAE to chart out the IPL 2020 schedule, as per reports earlier this week. The pair are reported to be in a constant dialogue with the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) and the UAE authorities to obtain further clarity on the prevailing COVID-19 related protocols.
1⃣9⃣-0⃣9⃣-2⃣0⃣2⃣0⃣
Mark the date! 🗓️
Let the countdown begin! ⏳ pic.twitter.com/JTnX5iARxE— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) August 20, 2020
Earlier, it was also revealed that officials of BCCI’s state units won’t be able to attend “at least the beginning” of the IPL because of the strict bio-bubble in place for the tournament beginning September 19 in the UAE, Board Secretary Jay Shah informed the member associations on Tuesday. Shah is confident that by the business end of the tournament, some of the travel restrictions will be relaxed, making it easier for members to travel to the UAE.
Although official announcements are yet to be made, IPL 2020 is still expected to begin on the originally opted date of 19th September with the final expected to take place on the 10th of November.
