|| Desk Report ||

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is all set to host the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) from September 19 to November 10 in the UAE. The league will include 10 double-headers while the evening matches will kick start at 7:30 p.m. IST. 

"We have decided to go up till November 10 and so the final will be held on a weekday for the first time. Also, to ensure that there are enough gaps between games considering the travelling and the biosecure environment and keeping all these things in mind, we will have 10 double-headers this season," the official said while speaking to IANS.

He further added, "We have decided to bring it forward by 30 minutes from the regular time of the IPL which is 8 p.m. for evening games and we will start at 7:30 instead."

While he was asked if the entry of spectators were discussed in the GC meeting, the official said that these things will be taken care of by the Emirates Cricket Board as well. Moreover, franchises have also been asked to start their visa process also.

"It would be great to have some fans come in as that would boost the morale of the players for sure. But what needs to be remembered is that the safety of the players is priority. So, these are things we will discuss with the ECB at the right time," the official said.

"We have been asked to start our visa process," an official of one of the franchises told IANS.

On the other hand, the BCCI is also hopeful of getting the complete go-ahead from the government in the upcoming week to host the tournament to UAE instead of India amid the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.