The Indian Premier League will be held in the United Arab Emirates now. This is official now. Even as an official announcement is still awaited, at least the cricket governing body in the UAE has confirmed that the Board of Control for Cricket in India has given them a formal nod to stage the event.
Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that they have received the official ‘Letter of Intent’ from the BCCI to host the 2020 edition of the IPL.
“We have received the (official) letter and now wait on the decision from the Indian Government which will ink the final deal,” Emirates Cricket Board Secretary General Mubashshir Usmani has staged in a Press release.
While the Board waits for notice from BCCI that the Indian Government has approved to move the IPL from India (to the UAE), Usmani stated both boards have fully mobilised and have initiated discussions with the relevant authorities, including their respective internal working-committees, in preparation of hosting the tournament, reportedly to be played form September 19 to November 8th.
“There are many factors which influence the operations and logistics of hosting what is the world’s most exciting, popular and lucrative tournament,” added Usmani.
“This is a massive movement of people and equipment and we now need to bring in the experts to discuss all aspects of UAE hosting the IPL. This includes the Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah Sports Councils, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah Tourism Bodies and the respective Government entities – such as the Police Forces and the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, all who have had strong, proven experience in such activities and we will work together to ascertain the best practices to support and deliver on a successful edition.”
Usmani further added that the UAE is well positioned with its experience on delivering the 2020 edition. “We have a sound, solid understanding of what is required, and to whom we need to consult and engage with from this early stage through to close of the Tournament.”
“UAE boasts some of the best practice facilities and stadia in the world across three-Emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah) which we are confident will be more than adequate to support the 8-team tournament.”
Responding to the Covid-19 threat, Usmani stated “Firstly, we are extremely pleased with how the UAE Government responded to the virus, which was as early as February and we continue to see encouraging numbers across the country – in decreasing cases and increasing recoveries.
“Secondly, we will fully support any requirements stipulated by the relevant Health Authorities in regards to Covid-19 safety measures and management.”
ECB has also pledged unwavering support and assistance at every step of the process.