Ever since IPL 2020 was over, speculations went round that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is likely to add one more team from the 2021 edition. However, it was ruled out due to a shortage of time and stated that IPL 2022 will see a 10-team tournament. But will it really be a 10-team affair?
The IPL Governing Council meeting that took place in Ahmedabad last month had given approval for the addition of two new franchises from the next season. However, BCCI in a move that is termed as cautious and insightful, is likely to add only one team in the next year.
BCCI likely to add only one team in IPL 2021
The introduction of one franchise will allow the board to reap additional benefits when they invite the bid for the 10th team. On the other hand, an addition of two teams will mean BCCI will have to change the format of the league in order to fit the entire schedule in the current cricketing calendar.
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“All said, it’s a well-thought move. The BCCI will clearly benefit in the short and long run because it’ll derive better value from the 10th franchise in the future, doesn’t really disturb the ecosystem for now, buys them more time to put their own house in order,” industry executives say.
The decision comes as BCCI looks to maintain the quality of the tournament which means ensuring quality cricketers to make it a 10-team tournament. The Sourav Ganguly-led body is keen to have the balance and thus, is in no mood to be in a hurry.
With the 2023 50-over World Cup of the ICC being shifted to October-November from the February-March window, BCCI is looking at the development to secure potentially a large window for a bigger IPL. The board is planning to add the month of March for the T20 league with major backing from a couple of big governing bodies.
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