Govt to decide IPL dates on Friday

Uncertainty looms large on holding the Indian Premier League during the April-May Lok Sabha poll period. Most host states have either expressed inability to hold matches coinciding with poll dates or demanded increased central paramilitary presence.

The eight states where IPL matches will be held have replied to a home ministry letter eliciting their views on the new schedule announced by IPL chief Lalit Modi. “A decision will be taken on Friday,” a ministry spokesman said.

While Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have demanded that the matches be held after the polls, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Karnataka have expressed inability to hold the matches without central assistance. Delhi has agreed to hold the matches on its own, sources said.

A high-level meeting in North Block on Friday will take a decision.