If the audience is allowed in the second phase of the Indian Premier League 2021, which begins on September 19 in the United Arab Emirates, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has “no objection.” Mubashir Usmani, the general secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), was quoted earlier as saying that the board would speak to the Indian cricket board (BCCI) and the UAE government about allowing fans back into the stands. BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal responded by saying that the BCCI would ‘love to have a crowd,’ but not at the expense of the players’ and spectators’ safety.
“We’re working on it, and we’re hopeful the UAE government will allow the crowd this time because everyone has been vaccinated.” Let’s wait and see what occurs. Fans should be allowed, but not at the expense of the players’ or spectators’ safety, which is more vital. The rest would be decided by the UAE government,” Dhumal told IANS.
In addition, Dhumal stated that the IPL 2022 will feature two new teams. “Everyone is watching the IPL right now, and we feel it will be a thrilling competition in the UAE. This will be the final season of the IPL, which will feature eight teams. Next time, there will most likely be ten teams. We’re also working on it,” he continued.
When pressed for more information on the two new teams that would be introduced, the BCCI treasurer remained tight-lipped. Moving on, Dhumal lauded India’s spectacular Test victory against England at Lord’s.
“Given our track record, it was a fantastic victory. We had a rough time in the first half, but the way Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah batted and bowled later in the game was incredible.”