The countdown to IPL 2025 is on, and fans eagerly await the full schedule. While all eyes are on the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the official announcement, one confirmed piece of news is that Visakhapatnam will once again host a couple of IPL matches this season. The city, which hosted games last year, remains a key venue for the upcoming season.
Visakhapatnam Retains IPL Hosting Rights
Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, has become a significant venue in IPL history. The city’s love for cricket, combined with the world-class infrastructure of the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, makes it an ideal IPL host.
In the past, the stadium has staged multiple IPL matches, including playoff fixtures. The crowd turnout and the pitch conditions make it a favorite among franchises looking for an alternative home base.
Delhi Capitals’ Second Home
The Delhi Capitals (DC) have confirmed that, just like last year, Visakhapatnam will be their secondary home venue. This means DC will play select matches in the city, offering cricket fans in Andhra Pradesh a chance to witness live IPL action.
The coastal city provides favorable playing conditions and has been a lucky venue for the Delhi Capitals in the past. Moreover, DC has strong fan support in the region, making it a strategic choice for hosting home games. While the exact dates and opponents are yet to be revealed, it is expected that DC will play at least two home games at Visakhapatnam, similar to last season.
Other Non-Regular Venues in IPL 2025
Apart from Visakhapatnam, two other cities have been confirmed as secondary venues for IPL 2024 teams:
Guwahati has been chosen as the second home venue for Rajasthan Royals, where they will play two matches at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium: one against Kolkata Knight Riders on March 26 and another against Chennai Super Kings on March 30. Meanwhile, Dharamsala has been selected as the home venue for Punjab Kings.
Dharamsala has been designated as the secondary home ground for Punjab Kings, where they will play three important matches against Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Anticipated Schedule Release
BCCI is set to unveil the complete IPL 2024 schedule on Monday. The first match of the tournament will be held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
The opening match of IPL 2024 will take place on March 22, featuring Kolkata Knight Riders against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The following day, March 23, will see SunRisers Hyderabad facing Rajasthan Royals in Hyderabad for the second match of the season.
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