IPL 2019 could move to UAE or South Africa, says Rajeev Shukla
If the tournament dates clash with general elections in India, IPL will be moving out for the upcoming season.
The next edition of Indian Premier League in 2019 could be held outside India if the dates of the tournament and general elections clash.
According to a report by Hindustan Times, IPL Chairman Rajeev Shukla said that BCCI is waiting for the dates of general elections in India to be announced to make the decision whether to move the cash-rich tournament outside the country for the twelfth season.
IPL was played outside India on two occasions. In 2009 the tournament was held in South Africa and in 2014, the first half of the schedule was played in UAE. The same countries are in consideration if the dates clash with the elections.
"If the dates of the general elections clash with those of the Indian Premier League, then the tournament will be held outside the country. But as of now, we are waiting for the dates to decide on how to go ahead with the scheduling," Shukla told the daily.
"The experience of hosting the IPL in the UAE was brilliant and that option is definitely there. But another option could be South Africa. Like I said before, the call will be taken keeping in mind the general elections and its dates," he continued.
Chennai Super Kings are the current champions after making a stellar comeback in 2018. The cricket extravaganza brings in fans to the stadium and eyeballs to TV resulting in massive profits for the cricketing body.