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In a big update with regards to the Indian Premier League (IPL) mega auctions ahead of the 2022 season, it is being reported that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is mulling to shift the venue from Bangalore. This is because of the hotels and COVID-19 restrictions. Moreover, it is also being learnt that a possible change of dates can also take place.
The development comes after BCCI had already closed in on February 12 and 13 as the dates for the auctions with Bengaluru confirmed as the venue. However, in a fresh update, the hotels have not yet given a word to the BCCI since they are awaiting new COVID-19 guidelines from the state government in face of the increasing Coronavirus cases and the third wave in India. The new guidelines could include a cap on the number of people in an indoor gathering and hence could pose a barrier in BCCI's earlier plan.
"Some things are out of our hands and we must wait. Bookings and stuff will not be an issue if we have an idea about the restrictions. We are closely monitoring the situation and are in talks with the state associations. If we need to move the venue, it can be done on short notice," a senior BCCI official was quoted as saying by InsideSport on Tuesday.
All cities on standby witnessing increasing COVID-19 cases
The latest update from Bengaluru is that while the Sheraton Grand has already been booked for the Pro Kabaddi League, the other hotels are waiting for the newer set of restrictions and rules which they would have to abide by. These new restrictions are expected to be imposed on Thursday and chances are that it may play a spoilsport to the plan of having the auctions in Bengaluru.
The BCCI is also looking at other venues, in the meantime. The Indian Board had already asked cities like Kolkata, Kochi and Mumbai to be on standby and with the number of daily cases rising in all these cities, it is possible that the BCCI may have to postpone the two-day event.