The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is currently in a dilemma over hosting the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) matches at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court appointed Committee of Administrator (CoA) is likely to meet later today in New Delhi to decide over the possible venues for the playoff games.
Meanwhile, CoA has also invited BCCI office-bearers for a short period between the meeting. As per reports in TOI, the three empty stands at the MA Chidambaram Stadium has been a reason for worry for the BCCI. Going by the history of the tournament, the defending champions generally host two of the IPL playoff games. However, the issue of three vacant stands is not going down well with the stakeholders. Incidentally, BCCI takes charge of all the stadiums from the start of the IPL.
CoA to meet at New Delhi
A BCCI official divulged on the itinerary of the meeting. He also revealed the issue over giving Chennai the knockout games. The broadcasters have raised concerns over it as it doesn’t make for good viewing. Also, he said that it’s been eight years and the franchise is yet to get a green signal over the three empty stands.
“It’s a regular meeting where the venues for the playoffs are decided. But there is some discomfort about awarding Chennai marquee matches. It doesn’t make for good viewing. The broadcasters are not very comfortable with it. It’s been nearly eight years and the host association has not been able to get a clearance,” a top BCCI official told TOI on Sunday.
Chennai Corporation have sealed three stands – I, J and K after finding discrepancies on the plan approval process during construction. The Corporation gave sanction after the 2011 World Cup and since then it has been used only once. Chennai Corporation gave special permission during the 2012 India-Pakistan game
It will be a massive loss for the Chennai Super Kings fans if Chepauk doesn’t get a playoff game. With Chennai in line to qualify for the playoffs, they will also not get to play at their fortress where they have a tremendous record.