After days of waiting, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) stated that they are fed up of waiting for the International Cricket Council (ICC) to decide on the T20 World Cup 2020.
As per a report in Times of India (ToI) the board confirmed that they have decided to start planning for the year ahead. They are planning up a tentative window for the Indian Premier League 2020, irrespective of ICC's decision on the T20 World Cup.
While speaking to ToI, Treasurer Arun Dhumal confirmed that the time has come for BCCI to start planning for the year ahead. "The year started on a horrible note and there's been no relief on any front. But as time goes by, we need to take things head on and ensure that we remain prepared for any eventuality. Cricket is no different. It is time for the BCCI to start planning for the year ahead," Dhumal told the media house.
Pointing over other sports that are resuming gradually around the world, Dhumal stated that BCCI is making plans for resumption from September.
"The NBA is beginning in the US in a protected zone. The English Premier League (EPL) is on and so are the FA Cup matches. Bundesliga was the first to show the way. Even Australia's domestic rugby league is about to begin. This is what is happening right now. What BCCI is talking about is making plans, even if at the contingency levels, for September onwards," he added.
Further hinting over, BCCI prioritising IPL over international cricket, Dhumal said it's easier to host domestic leagues.
"So, what are we witnessing here? Domestic leagues are in focus while the Olympics and the World Cups are taking a backseat. That's because local leagues don't depend on too many external factors to get going. Revenues are more localised; gate receipts aren't such a huge concern and local leagues can be trimmed and planned to suit particular windows. They're also television friendly because they can be adjusted to primarily suit local prime time," he finally stated.
The 13th edition of IPL was supposed to begin in March this year but got suspended due to COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the dates are yet to be decided.
Also, the ICC is yet to decide on the T20 World Cup, which is currently scheduled for October-November in Australia. Reports suggest that a postponement of the T20 World Cup will give BCCI a window to host the IPL 2002.
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