New Delhi: The cricketing extravaganza of India, the Indian Premier League (IPL), has commenced its 17th season with an air of excitement and anticipation. As the ten formidable teams gear up for a total of 74 high-octane matches, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strategically released the schedule for the initial 21 games. The unveiling of the full program took place on Monday, 25th March, aligning with the festive spirit of Holi.
The iconic Chepauk Stadium in Chennai is set to host the IPL final on the 26th of May, with the second qualifier also slated for the same venue on the 24th of May. This honor has been bestowed upon Chennai as a nod to the Chennai Super Kings, the reigning champions, who, as per tradition, are granted the privilege of hosting the opening and closing matches of the tournament.
While the IPL action kicked off on the 22nd of March, the BCCI had initially only disclosed the fixtures for the first fortnight. The remaining matches, including two pivotal playoffs, are scheduled at the colossal Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on the 21st and 22nd of May.
In a statement, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah highlighted the meticulous planning involved in accommodating the Lok Sabha election schedule. Post a brief hiatus on the 20th of May, the first qualifier and the eliminator will take center stage at the world’s largest cricket stadium in Ahmedabad. The second qualifier and the grand finale will then return to the home ground of the Chennai Super Kings, promising an electrifying end to the season.
The election proceedings in Chennai, with 39 constituencies going to polls on the 19th of April, have been carefully considered in the scheduling. Meanwhile, the Delhi Capitals are set to play their initial home games in Visakhapatnam on the 31st of March and the 3rd of April, followed by a series of matches in the national capital starting from the 20th of April.
The legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni, having passed the mantle of captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad, may potentially grace the pitch for one last hurrah at his home ground if the Chennai Super Kings make it to the finals. This season marks a poignant chapter in Dhoni’s illustrious career, hinting at a farewell from the IPL stage.
The Punjab Kings are scheduled to clash with Chennai and the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the serene backdrop of Dharamshala on the 5th and 9th of May, respectively. The Rajasthan Royals will also venture to their second home in Guwahati for matches against the Punjab Kings on the 15th of May and the Kolkata Knight Riders on the 19th of May.
As the IPL saga unfolds, fans eagerly await the top-tier cricketing action that is synonymous with the Indian summer. The stage is set for a season of unforgettable moments and thrilling cricket.
