The IPL 2020 was supposed to begin on March 29 and was postponed till April 15.
However, with over 12,000 positive COVID 19 cases and over 400 deaths, the government of India decided to extend the previous lockdown of 21 days, which was supposed to end on April 14, to May 3rd. This new lockdown will come with some caveats and relaxations, but sporting activities are still banned.
Keeping this decision of the government in mind, the IPL GC of BCCI has decided to postpone the 13th season of the Indian Premier League until further notice. “Due to the evolving global health concerns regarding COVID-19 and lockdown measures implemented by the Government of India to contain the spread of the pandemic, the IPL Governing Council of the BCCI has decided that the IPL 2020 Season will be suspended till further notice,” a statement on IPL website read.
The statement further read, “The health and safety of the nation and everyone involved in our great sport remain our top priority and as such, the BCCI along with the Franchise Owners, Broadcaster, Sponsors and all the Stakeholders acknowledge that the IPL 2020 season will only commence when it is safe and appropriate to do so. “
Unlike other events like the Olympics and football leagues, the IPL may happen at a later date if the pandemic subsidizes and hence BCCI has said that it will keep an eye on conditions and take suggestions from the government.
“BCCI will continue to monitor and review the situation regarding a potential start date in close partnership with all of its stakeholders and will continue to take guidance from the Government of India, State Governments and other State Regulatory bodies,” the statement concluded.
(iplt20.com inputs)