In a major development, the second phase of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is likely to be played be held in September 19-October 10 window, Cricbuzz reported on Monday (May 31).

After its Special General Meeting (SGM), BCCI on Saturday (May 29) announced that the remaining 31 games of IPL 14 will be held in the United Arab Emirates, where the cash-rich event was successfully staged last year.

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Unlike IPL 2020, however, crowd will be allowed in the stadiums for the remainder of IPL 2021 unless for an intervention from the local government.

“The vaccinated fans can be allowed up to 50 per cent of the [stadium] capacity,” Cricbuzz quoted a UAE board official as saying.

Meanwhile, BCCI’s top officials have departed for Dubai to finalise the required arrangements with the UAE government and the Emirates Cricket Board.

BCCI President Sourav Ganguly, secretary Jay Shah, treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal, vice-president Rajeev Shukla and joint secretary Jayesh George have reportedly arrived in Dubai on May 31.

With the travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ECB officials had to take approval from the UAE government for the landing of the BCCI delegation.

The aim of the visit seems to be finalising logistical and operational requirements related to the tournament. There could be discussions over the concessional price of hotels who are reportedly quoting a huge amount.

Having hosted the entire tournament last year, the ECB officials are confident of pulling off the 31 matches of IPL 2021.

(Inputs from Cricbuzz)