IPL likely in Sept-Oct: Governing Council Chairman speaks up

Mumbai: In wake of the coronavirus pandemic, all the sports events are witnessing a long halt. The most awaited event, Indian Premier League was on cards when the nationwide lock down came into effect. Brijesh Patel, Chairman, IPL Governing Council talked to the Times of India regarding resumption of this year's IPL. He said, he's been waiting for the ICC to take final call on this year's T-20 World Cup and then they will proceed with IPL's preparation.

Here's what he said

Speaking to TOI, Brijesh Patel said: "We are ready to go ahead with the IPL. But we can start planning the schedule only after the announcement is made on T20 World Cup, which I'm expecting will arrive anytime soon. On our part, we've already earmarked the September-October window for the tournament to be played."

Speaking to Sportstar, Patel said: "We are looking at that window, but it’s all subject to the World Cup and Asia Cup and whether that will happen or not. But we are preparing for that”

Patel further added that it depends on the situation of the country where the IPL will be hosted. In any case, preference shall always be given to India.

Hopes of IPL escalated when BCCI President, Sourav Ganguly wrote letter to state units regarding ICC meeting. He stated that board is trying its level best to stage IPL this year, even if it had to be in empty stadiums.

Patel said for the above statement: "We are open to that (playing in empty stands). If the crowd is allowed, then nothing like it. But we have to monitor the situation and see accordingly""

The final decision regarding T20 WC was to be announced by ICC in May. However, it will now come up on June 14 and majority of the things depend on that.

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