The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is probably exploring the possibility of playing a white-ball series against South Africa in the UAE before the commencement of IPL 2020 if reports from Times of India are to be believed.
BCCI is looking for this arrangement in order to make up to broadcasters Star Sports, who are not happy with the board’s decision to look at a September 26 to November 8 window for the IPL 2020, as this would mean letting go the lucrative Diwali weekend.
The report added that the three-match series between India and South Africa will be a 'catalyst' for STAR, who are eyeing Cricket South Africa's (CSA) home broadcasting rights as well. However, there is a question mark hanging on the white-ball series as per people who are privy to the inside information.
"The question is, will BCCI allow? The Indian team hasn't played any cricket since March and is required to play a two-month-long IPL followed by two months in Australia, which is a demanding tour. Why would you risk fitness when they've not even stepped on the ground for so long, especially when BCCI president says he expects Virat Kohli to win in Australia? If you want them to do well, then give them time to recover from this four-month isolation," say those tracking developments.
The report added that the three-match series between India and South Africa will be a 'catalyst' for STAR, who are eyeing Cricket South Africa's (CSA) home broadcasting rights as well.
"If BCCI gives a go-ahead to the series, it's a win-win for Star. The only question is will the Board rush its players into a series so early after such a long break? Ideally, the team would have required a one-month camp to get back to full fitness, which was the earlier plan," sources say.
(Times of India inputs)
