The BCCI, in a significant announcement, has rescheduled two IPL 2024 matches due to security concerns raised by the local police. Originally, the clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals was set for April 17 at Eden Gardens but has been moved up to April 16. Similarly, the Gujarat Titans versus Delhi Capitals match, initially scheduled for April 16 at Narendra Modi Stadium, will now take place on April 17.
This decision stemmed from the local police’s inability to ensure security on April 17, coinciding with the Hindu festival of Ram Navami and the upcoming general elections, as communicated by the Kolkata police. Despite considering April 18, it was dismissed due to the impending general elections starting on April 19.
Kolkata Police gave a statement “Since the match is coinciding with Ram Navami and a portion of security is already deployed for elections. Therefore it won’t be possible for us to provide adequate security for the match on April 17.”
The IPL’s second phase, comprising 52 matches and playoffs, commences on April 8. Chennai Super Kings will face Kolkata Knight Riders in the opening match in Chennai. Playoff matches will adhere to the standard evening schedule. After 12 years, Chennai will host the IPL final on May 26 at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, previously the venue for the IPL final in 2011 and 2012.
In the IPL 2024 season, Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals maintain unbeaten records. Rajasthan Royals have won all three matches against Lucknow Super Giants, Delhi Capitals, and Mumbai Indians. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders secured second place in the standings with victories over Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their two matches.
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