The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remains committed to hosting the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in India. However, they are still open to shifting the tournament to the UAE considering they are not sure about the challenges they will face due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Incidentally, a report in Mumbai Mirror suggests the IPL governing council met virtually on Monday to decide the course of action for IPL 2021. The trading window has been opened for the franchises and they are asked to release players by January 21.
IPL 2021 auctions to take place in February
Moreover, the report also suggests that the auction will take place in the second week of February. There were rumours that BCCI is keen to host a mega auction but Mumbai Mirror reported that it is unlikely to happen. Instead, there will be a mini-auction which will benefit franchises like Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals.
Meanwhile, BCCI is yet to get an idea of their preference of venue but the board is reportedly aware that most teams would be happy to see the tournament get staged in UAE rather than India due to the COVID complications in the country. However, BCCI remains determined to assess the situation after the conclusion of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Also Read: Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2021 – Schedule, Squads, Venue & Everything You Need To Know
“How we approach the next IPL is dependent on how the Mushtaq Ali plays out,” a BCCI member was quoted as saying by Mumbai Mirror.
The domestic T20 competition will commence from January 10 and will run until January 31. BCCI has planned to host the tournament in six cities creating a bio-bubble due to the coronavirus. A lot will depend on Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy if BCCI can host IPL 2021 in India.
Also Read: IPL 2021 Mini Auctions: Top 5 Overseas Players Who Can Be Top Buys For Franchisees
Meanwhile, this T20 tournament also holds a lot of importance for the players. They will look to give their shot before IPL 2021 auctions take place in mid-February. Some big names including the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Ishant Sharma, and Suryakumr Yadav among others will be in action.
