Picture Credit: Twitter/BCCI
In a significant development, the Indian Premier League (IPL) games in Maharashtra will witness an increased crowd capacity in the four stadiums. Notably, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed the Mumbai Cricket Association and the Maharashtra Cricket Association to make necessary arrangements for 50% crowd capacity from April 5. This decision comes after a green signal was received from the Government of Maharashtra.
A BCCI official confirmed that besides making the logistical and security arrangements, the ticketing partners have also been issued relevant instructions. The first seven matches of the tournament have witnessed a crowd capacity of just 25% in the stadiums. Rajasthan Royals’ clash against Royal Challengers Bangalore at Wankhede Stadium on April 5 will be the first match wherein the increased attendance will be seen for the first time in IPL 2022.
The development comes after the Maharashtra government lifted all the COVID-19 curbs starting April 1 as the state hasn't witnessed any major spike in Covid-19 cases off late. It should be noted that all the league matches of IPL 2022 are being played at four venues – three in Mumbai and one in Pune. Wankhede and DY Patil Stadium will witness 20 IPL matches each while the Brabourne stadium in Mumbai and MCA Stadium in Pune will play hosts to 15 games each.