The twelfth edition of the Indian Premier League; IPL 2019, is scheduled to be hosted in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), due to the Lok Sabha elections (general) next year.
This is not the first time cricket’s marquee event would be held in the UAE. The 2014 edition of the cash-rich league, won by the Kolkata Knight Riders, was hosted partially in the country of expatriates in particular.
Also, the second edition of IPL in 2009 was held completely by South Africa. Adam Gilchrist’s Deccan Chargers went on to win the tournament held at the Rainbow nation.
Both measures were taken such that the event did not clash with the ruckus associated with the Indian Election system, engaging personnel for security.
“Well, we will only take a call when the situation arises, but we are ready for any such eventuality. The United Arab Emirates looks to be the most likely country where it would be shifted if need be”, a top BCCI official commented under the condition of anonymity.
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IPL 2019 to take place from 29th March to 19th May –
Also, the fact is that the matches in the UAE remain suitable with respect – to Indian time zone which eventually will serve the cause.
“UAE’s time zone suits the Indian audience, unlike South Africa,” said the official according to PTI.
It was only recently that the Future Tours Program (FTP) was announced by the world cricket governing body ICC.
India is scheduled to take on South Africa in the tournament opener of the 2019 ICC World Cup in England.
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The date of May 30 has been slated as the date of commencement of the mega-event of the ICC.
Prior to that, IPL 2019 would be held in between the window of 29th March to 19th May next year.
India also is scheduled to play 19 home Test matches between the period of 2019-2023.