Meanwhile, BCCI decided to halt the 14th edition of the cash-rich league midway after several cases of COVID19 and a potential bio-bubble breach emerged. Two members of Kolkata Knight Riders, one Sunrsiers Hyderabad cricketer, one Delhi Capitals, and three members of Chennai Super Kings tested positive for the deadly virus.

Since then, a number of possible options have emerged to host the remainder of the tournament. With the Indian squad travelling to the UK for the World Test Championship final and subsequently the England series, they have become one of the front-runners to host IPL 2021. A couple of counties have already written to the England and Wales Cricket Board expressing their desire to stage the competition.

Small possibility of hosting remaining IPL 2021 in UK: Rajasthan Royals owner

Reports also suggested that UAE can host the remainder of IPL 2021. While there is still no clarity on the future of the tournament Rajasthan Royals owner Manoj Badale also reckons that there’s a ‘small possibility’ of IPL 2021 taking place outside India.

“There is a possibility, a small possibility, that in September there might be something in the UK or possibly something in the Middle East either side of the T20 World Cup, but it’s going to be a real challenge,” Badale told reporters.

Manoj Badale also highlighted that the cricket schedule is packed this year and players are already playing too much cricket. However, it is likely that England players will not be able to take part in the tournament if BCCI hosts the tournament later this year.

“In my opinion, the players are already playing too much cricket. The calendars are incredibly packed, particularly this year after COVID. Boards from around the world are trying to get as many competitions and as many test matches as possible,” Badale asserted.