IPL 2020 is almost upon us as cricket enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for the action to begin. The upcoming season is all set to be historic as for the first time IPL matches will be contested in a biosecure bubble to protect all players from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Board of Control for Cricket In India (BCCI) has already laid down a detailed plan for all the franchises that they are obligated to follow throughout the season in UAE. Apart from cricket the glitz and glamour are also associated with the cash-rich league.
Each year before the opening match a carnival-like opening ceremony kicks off the IPL which pleases everyone. However this year the IPL will go ahead without any opening ceremony in the UAE.
Due to the coronavirus scare chances of BCCI organising a lavish opening ceremony looks very bleak as it will lead to compromising with social distancing. Also, it is highly improbable that the fans will get to see cheerleaders during the matches due to the tension regarding coronavirus.
No Opening Ceremony And Cheerleaders During IPL 2020
Meanwhile, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly has always focused on looking at the positive side of things with IPL getting staged in the UAE this year. A few weeks back Ganguly emphasised on the fact that the broadcasters are expecting highest television rating for the upcoming IPL season.
“The broadcasters are actually expecting the highest rating of IPL this season because they believe if (people) don’t turn up in the ground, they will be watching on their television sets. There is a positive in everything,” said Ganguly.
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Moreover, there’s no denying the fact that players will feel a little out of place when they take the field behind closed doors. Cricket fans play a crucial role in enhancing the overall brand of the IPL. However, there’s still an outside chance of 30% crowd witnessing live action from the stands during IPL 2020.
The 13th edition of the league will kick off from September 19 and will be played till November 10. Defending Champions Mumbai Indians will take on the Chennai Super Kings in the season opener at Abu Dhabi.
