Sri Lanka shows interest in hosting remaining matches of IPL 2021

The 14th edition of the IPL has been postponed indefinitely after mounting cases of COVID-19 were reported in four different camps. Amidst this, Sri Lanka Cricket has offered BCCI, the stadiums in their country, to be able to host the remainder of the IPL 2021. There have been proposals from many organizations to host the IPL. After all, hosting IPL brings in huge revenues, besides inculcating fan culture.

Nevertheless, it is going to be very tough for Sourav Ganguly & Co. to fix a window to host the remaining matches. A hectic international schedule lies ahead of these cricketers. Besides the stop-gap, there has been a loss of approximately INR 2500 Crores because the season has not yet concluded. 

However, BCCI’s first preference could be the UAE, after they successfully hosted the tournament amidst the pandemic hit 2020. Earlier, four county clubs in England had offered their stadiums to host the 31 remaining matches. Namely, Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), Warwickshire, Lancashire, and Surrey.

SLC ready to host 31 games of IPL 2021

In a more recent conversation between the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) and BCCI, Prof. Arjuna De Silva, the former’s chief, has expressed that they can provide a window in September to host the remaining games and eventually conclude the season. It is understood that Prof. Arjuna’s term is coming to an end, and the SLC elections later this month. However, a change in the presidency will not lead to a shift in offer. It will remain intact. 

Speaking to Cricwire, Prof. Arjuna quoted, “Yes, we can certainly provide a window to host the IPL in the month of September. We hear the UAE (United Arab Emirates) is their one option, but Sri Lanka cannot be ignored for all reasons. We are planning to host the Lanka Premier League (LPL) in July-August and the grounds and other infrastructure will be ready for the IPL in September”, he added.