Lucknow In Line To Host IPL Matches Next Year
Dec 8, 2016 at 10:50 AM
Rajeev Shukla, Indian Premier League chairman (IPL), has said Lucknow could host IPL matches next year if required arrangements are done within time. The BCCI has taken the onus of spreading the game in small towns and Lucknow, it seems, is the latest venue in the cricket board’s mind. IPL matches were hosted in Rajkot and Kanpur last year and received a huge response from fans.
Speaking to Times of India, Shukla said: “We can’t confirm if IPL will be held in Lucknow next year. But if the arrangements are made according to international standards, matches can be held. The board is going to inspect the facilities before taking a decision.”
Shukla also said the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association has purchased land to build a new stadium.
He said:“More stadia means more cricket and that is going to be good for the game.
Meanwhile, the cricket board will be quite pleased with the warm response from the players about the Lucknow stadium. The ground is currently hosting a Ranji Trophy game between Andhra Pradesh and Hyderabad and the players have heaped praise on the ground.
Andhra captain GH Vihari, who plies his trade for Sunrisers Hyderabad said: “It’s an amazing ground. The wicket is very sporting but because of the winter conditions the fast bowlers were getting a lot of purchase. On the whole, it was a very enjoyable experience for us. By the time the IPL starts, it will be early summer and I am sure the wicket will be a good one to bat on.”
Andhra were bowled out for only 190 in their first innings. Pacers Ravi Kiran (4) and Chama Milind (5) made merry in favourable conditions but players are confident the pitch will be good to bat on once the summer arrives.
“The fast bowlers had a field day as they got a lot of movement off the wicket and in the air too. The outfield is fabulous and once the stadium is completed, I think it will be one of the best in the country,” Hyderabad opener P Akshath Reddy said.