Picture Credit: BCCI
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has called for a Special General Meeting (SGM) on May 29 to discuss the fate of the T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in October-November this year. Sources close to the board revealed BCCI is hopeful that it will be able to conduct T20 World Cup in India, scheduled for later this year. BCCI has prepared a strong case that will support its position at the meeting.
United Arab Emirates back-up destination for T20 WC
Meanwhile, United Arab Emirates (UAE) is being considered as the back-up destination if the World Cup has to be shifted at a later stage. But any call on the same will be taken only after the month of June. As of now, BCCI remains confident of hosting the T20 World Cup.
"Right now, India is the host venue for the World Cup. That's how the Board is seeing it. If things go awry again, then a call will be taken only after the month of June. And yes, UAE is the second option," Board sources in the know of things said.
United Kingdom top-choice for completion of IPL 2021
The board will also discuss the rescheduling of the Indian Premier League's (IPL) remaining 31 matches at the meeting. The United Kingdom is currently being seen as the top-choice destination for the completion of the cash-rich tournament. The English counties have reportedly agreed to host the IPL, with backing of the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Further, broadcasters Star are also in favour of the move.
The Indian team will travel to England for the highly-awaited World Test Championship final. Also, the Indian players will remain based out of England until the completion of India’s five-Test series against England. As a result, shifting the tournament to United Kingdom is being seen as a more viable option than shifting the T20 World Cup to the UAE.
India vs England Test series could be trimmed
Further, the source revealed that BCCI and the ECB are in discussions to tweak the five-match Test series, so as to accommodate a window for completion of IPL 2021. ECB is eager to host the Part-2 of IPL 2021 because the counties can earn from it. Completing the IPL 2021 is of primary importance for all stakeholders involved and BCCI is adamant on the same.
"Everything will move in that direction. The IPL has to be completed and there is no doubt about it," sources concluded.