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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) have shortlisted four cities to host Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) home matches in the wake of the recent Cauvery water dispute.

Meanwhile, the dispute has created a volatile political situation in the state.

As per reports, Visakhapatnam is the front-runner among the four cities, the other three shortlisted venues are Trivandrum, Pune, and Rajkot.

However, there were calls by certain groups not to host matches in the city during this time.

Moreover, massive protests took place outside the stadium prior to the match against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 10.

Also, an identified protestor flung a shoe at CSK’s Ravindra Jadeja during the match.

Committee of Administrator (CoA) Vinod Rai admitted that the ongoing situation has forced them to explore options.

“We are thinking on the lines of shifting the IPL matches from Chennai. There are four alternative venues that BCCI has kept ready. They are Visakhapatnam, Trivandrum, Pune, and Rajkot. CSK can play their matches at these venues,” Rai told PTI.

Interestingly, the CoA made it clear by revealing the management of the IPL franchise CSK has a right to opt for the choice of a home venue.

“We have to keep in mind the prevailing political and security situation in the state. But we have told the CSK franchise to evaluate the current situation and take a final call in this regard. It will be CSK’s decision,” he added.

Meanwhile, Super Kings had a heroic return to their den after 1,045 days. They registered back-to-back thrilling victories to start the league on a high.

Visakhapatnam is likely to get a nod from the CSK management due to logistical reasons following the decision from BCCI.

However, CSK will play their home match again on April 20 and situation may get better before the clash against Rajasthan Royals.

IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla had also spoken to the Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba on Tuesday, seeking government intervention in smooth conduct of IPL matches in Chennai.