Instead of bringing out a tender for two new IPL teams from 2020 onwards, the BCCI is contemplating the introduction of just one new franchise early next year paving way for a nine-team event at least until 2022.
One of the major reasons behind the pragmatic tweak to the earlier plan being the ICC future tours programme that might not make it feasible to host 90 matches in a stipulated duration as a ten-team tournament's league stage only will require.
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"Nine teams work well until a new FTP can fall in place (2023) and BCCI can introduce the 10th team," a source close to the matter told TOI.
Secondly, considering a base price of around US$300m (approx. Rs 2000 crore) for the new franchise, the board isn't sure of the current market situation. "There are buyers. That’s not the point. But are there enough buyers coming to the table where bidding can be a competitive process? For one franchise, yes. For two, let’s see," the source added.
The massive new 1.1 lakh capacity venue in Ahmedabad is likely to be ready and available by March next year and the third hurdle is related to that, as further reported.
"There will be takers, given the following for cricket in Ahmedabad and the resources available there," those in know-how were quoted, making it clear the board would love to have the new team form its base in Motera only. "So, if a tender is brought out for one franchise right now, there’ll certainly be great amount of interest and will set a benchmark for the future."
There is also the issue related to the now-disbanded Kochi Tuskers Kerala franchise that is required to be paid in excess of Rs 1500 crore as per the arbitration result. There are two other disputes to settle against further terminated franchises Deccan Chargers and Sahara Pune Warriors.
"Will Kochi Tuskers be offered money or a franchise? It’s a big question," the source said. "Regardless of whether BCCI is in a strong position in some cases or on the backfoot on some, the point is that legal cases are on and smoothly settling them before beginning afresh is the right thing to do."
The AGM on December 1 is when the final call over the matter may be taken.
(Inputs from TOI)
