Last Updated on 5 years ago by Charbel Coorey
Cricket News: 60% capacity in IPL 2021 phase 2 – reports | Times of India reports that stadiums will be filled to 60% capacity in the UAE
The second stage of IPL 2021, which is set to begin on September 19 in the UAE with a showpiece fixture between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, is likely to host crowds.
If it does indeed go ahead, it will be the first time that crowds will be present at an IPL tournament since 2019. IPL 2020, won by Mumbai Indians and also hosted in the UAE, went ahead behind closed doors. The first half of IPL 2021 was also conducted behind closed doors but was soon postponed due to the COVID-19 situation in India.
Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) keen to host fans in stadiums for IPL 2021 phase 2
According to reports, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) are working with the Board of Cricket Control in India (BCCI) and the UAE government to host matches at 60% capacity. Gulf News reported that ECB secretary Mubashir Usmani is working at gaining consent via protocols to ensure a safe environment for fans and players in these times of the pandemic.
“As hosts, ECB will work closely with the authorities to seek approval on what protocols need to be followed. This includes fan attendance. We will then discuss it with the BCCI as well as the ICC to assess their spectator requirements. We want our expat and Emirati sports-loving fans in the UAE to be able to watch the action from the stands,” said Usmani.
The remaining 31 matches of IPL 2021 will be played across the span of 27 days, with the final to take place on October 15. Soon after the IPL, the T20 World Cup will also take place in the UAE. With plenty of cricket to be played at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, it will be interesting to see how the pitches will play in the showpiece international tournament.
