Picture Credit: IPL/BCCI
The second phase of IPL 2021 is set to resume in UAE from September 19 and there is already a lot of excitement among the fans. However, there were speculations that the tournament will have to be played inside closed doors, just like Pakistan Super League. But there is good news for all the fans just a month before the resumption of the league.
As per the latest reports, Emirates Cricket Board have been given the nod ahead by concerned authorities to allow fans inside the stadium. The board had notably been in talks with the government regarding the same for quite some time and after considering all the aspects, it has been decided that fans will be allowed during rescheduled IPL 2021.
IPL 2021 matches will be played at three venues
With 31 matches remaining in the tournament, the matches have been divided to be played across three venues in UAE. The following stadiums will host the remaining IPL 2021 contests:
1. Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi (8 matches)
2. Dubai International Stadium, Dubai (13 matches)
3. Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah (10 matches)
Stadiums will be allowed 60% capacity
Although full-capacity crowds have been allowed inside the stadiums in various football leagues across the globe, Emirates Cricket Board will be starting off cautiously with their approach. It has been reported that all three venues in UAE will be allowed 60% capacity during the second phase of IPL 2021. Hence, the permissible limit for the number of fans in UAE will be as follows:
1. Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Stadium Capacity: 20,000; Fans allowed: 12,000
2. Dubai International Stadium, Dubai
Stadium Capacity: 25,000; Fans allowed: 15,000
3. Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah
Stadium Capacity: 27,000; Fans allowed: 16,200
2021 T20 World Cup could also have fans
It had been earlier reported that the 2021 T20 World Cup, which is also set to take place in UAE, might be played without fans inside the stadiums. However, if the second phase of IPL 2021 goes on smoothly without any major concern, there is a possibility that ICC might look at the prospect of allowing fans inside the stadiums during the mega event. The tournament is scheduled to take place from October 17 to November 14.