In a recent development, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has proposed that Indian Premier League (IPL) matches in the night start an hour early in the forthcoming season. The IPL governing council cited several problems that the teams and the spectators face in the night games.
Over the last 10 years, matches are played in either of the two schedules. The day matches used to start at 4 PM and the night matches begin at 8 PM. After the night matches, the players usually reach their hotels late and the same problems were faced by the spectators.
As reported by the Indian Express, IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla proposed the idea of starting matches early which has been welcomed by the franchises. However, the final decision has to be taken by the broadcasters Star India. He said,
It was just a thought and everyone welcomed it. But first, we need to speak to the broadcaster. Once they approve, we will work on modalities then. There have been many centres where travelling is a major concern. All the issues were discussed and we all thought to start the game but early.
According to the reports, the IPL governing council has given a green signal to the mid-term transfers during the eleventh season. This move is beneficial for those players who are talented but didn’t get any opportunities. On this, Shukla said,
Every IPL owner agreed to have this in the forthcoming season. It will give chance to those players who are good but are not getting opportunities to be part of playing XI of any IPL side. We are having an IPL governing council meeting soon to finalize all these points.
Also, Chennai Super Kings and Rajasthan Royals are going to make a comeback after being banned for two years. The eleventh edition of the IPL is scheduled to begin from April 4, 2018.
