After the successful conclusion of the mini-auction, the focus shifts on the schedule and venue of IPL 2021. The governing body of IPL is yet to announce the finals dates and most importantly the venues for the 60-match-long tournament.
Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal has hinted that there is a possibility of conducting the entire 46 matches of the league stage of the 2021 season in Mumbai before moving to Ahmedabad to play the knockouts games at the newly-built Motera Stadium.
While hinting at the possibility of IPL’s venue, Jindal said, “From what I’m hearing and seeing, if England can come and tour, if the Indian Super League can happen all in Goa, if Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy can happen across venues, I can’t fathom the IPL moving out of India. I believe they’re contemplating whether to have the league phase at one venue and playoffs at another venue.”
Mumbai has three world-class cricket grounds in Wankhede Stadium, Brabourne Stadium, and DY Patil Stadium. All these Mumbai-based stadiums have hosted domestic and international games. Meanwhile, the new stadium at Motera is all set to host international games between England and India during February and March.
All the franchises have looked at the venue factor in mind before sitting on the tables for the auction. Apart from Jindal, a few other key personnel from other franchises also had a say on the issue. VVS Laxman, mentor of the Sunrisers Hyderabad, said that things were still uncertain, while Venky Mysore of Kolkata Knight Riders backed Laxman’s statement. Whereas, Punjab Kings’ Anil Kumble said they had built the squad keeping all options and conditions in mind.