Mumbai is scheduled to host 10 matches of the IPL 2021 league stage from April 10 to April 25 with the first game being between CSK and DC.
While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly on Sunday confirmed that everything will go on as per schedule in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 despite the COVID-19 restrictions in many states, former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin has offered a new venue for the league to be held.
The 14th edition of the IPL will be held in India from April 9 to May 30 but BCCI and IPL governing council have been faced with concerns after as many as eight groundsmen have tested positive for coronavirus at Wankhede stadium in Mumbai.
The venue is scheduled to host 10 matches of the IPL 2021 league stage from April 10 to April 25 with the first game being between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Delhi Capitals (DC).
Due to the sudden rise in cases in Mumbai, the Maharashtra government announced a weekend lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. While the body has kept Hyderabad and Indore as backup venues, there have been no confirmation regarding the rescheduling of the T20 extravaganza.
However, Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) president Mohammed Azharuddin has offered the Indian board to host the IPL 2021 in the city in a secure environment.
The veteran took to his official Twitter handle and wrote, "In these difficult times, there are all the more reasons for us to stand by each other. Hyderabad Cricket Association would like to offer its facilities to @BCCI to ensure that IPL2021 is conducted in safe and secure venues".
As many as four franchises including DC, CSK, Punjab Kings (PBKS), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) have set up their practice and training camps in Mumbai.
Speaking about the potential change in venues, a source told Times Now, "We are keeping a close eye on each venue regarding COVID-19 cases, as of now no decision has been taken but Indore and Hyderabad are on standby. Will see what to be done, health and safety of players is of the utmost importance".
In addition, two players - Delhi Capitals' Axar Patel and Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) Devdutt Padikkal have also tested positive for coronavirus.
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