Sports Pundit
Cricket

IPL 2009…When is it?

The Indian Government has been forwarded a revised tournament schedule of the 2nd edition of the IPL to be played in 2009.

The Indian Government has been forwarded a revised tournament schedule of the 2nd edition of the IPL to be played in 2009. As per this changed schedule, the matches would not clash with the election dates in the country. At any particular venue, there would be a gap of 2 days (6 to 7 days sometimes), before and after the election dates. The IPL is waiting for a response from the Government.

Bindra’s feelings

IS Bindra, the ICCs principal adviser and a member of the IPLs governing council has acceded that the IPL would have to take into consideration the priorities of the Indian Government. He said that if the state administrations are not able to manage the security, there would be no alternative left with the IPL. However, he added that he felt sure that such a situation would not arise. IS Bindra>

The Indian home ministry has advocated that the tournament should be held after the elections are over. This ministry would now consult the individual state administrations at the venues of the IPL and get their feedback before replying to the IPL.

Comments of officials

Some IPL officials stated that the championship could be held in 2 legs at some venues. Due to this, there was a distinct probability that the matches at a particular venue would be completed before the election date. The worst possibility for the IPL was to decrease its 44 day schedule to 30 days. A home ministry official disclosed that the Lahore attack has altered the view of threat of terrorist attacks. If the state administration asks for central forces when the election is in progress, this could pose a major problem.