IPL 2021: Few franchise officials to visit UAE next week, finalisation of logistics in agenda
The 2021 Indian Premier League remains suspended following the breach of the bubble last month due to COVID. Meanwhile, the remainder of the tournament would be played in the United Arab Emirates, with franchises looking to begin preparations.
FollowThe much-hyped Indian Premier League 2021 made headline on a shocking note when its highly secure bio-bubble was breached by COVID-19, with around ten participating members testing positive. Consequently, the tournament was suspended indefinitely, with just half of it being completed.
Meanwhile, the competition has now been moved to the United Arab Emirates. While it is to be played between September 19 and October 15, some franchise officials are looking to visit the gulf next week to finalise the logistics.
"We are looking at heading to the UAE post-July 6, once we get the go-ahead from the BCCI and the government so that we can seal the logistical deals. Unlike last year, bulk bookings won't be as easy this year as you will have people travelling into the country and that makes the work around bio-bubbles all the more critical," an official was quoted as saying to ANI.
ALSO READ: IPL 2021: BCCI vice-president confirms dates for UAE leg; details inside
"We sent in a request to the BCCI to travel, but we have been asked to wait for the approval. While we had a good stay last time, we are looking at ways to making things even better this time around and that is the reason why we want to be present there while dealing with the hotel management," another official added.
Meanwhile, the availability of a few overseas players remains a concern since the tournament is likely to clash with preparations for the ICC World T20 in October-November. However, the franchises have preserved their faith with the Board of Control for Cricket in India for holding positive talks with the member boards and helping them in having the players available.
"While we are yet to hear from the BCCI on this, we are confident that we will have the services of the foreign players. Hoping for them to get the NOCs from their respective boards," maintained an official.
NOTE: Asianet News humbly requests everyone to wear masks, sanitise, maintain social distancing and get vaccinated as soon as eligible. Together we can and will break the chain #ANCares #IndiaFightsCorona
