ECB And BCCI Will Discuss Allowing Fans Into Stands: Usmani

The spectators may return for the 2nd phase of the 14th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2021), which is slated to start on September 19 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Mubashir Usmani, the general secretary of the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB), was reported by Gulf News as stating that the authority will discuss letting fans back into the stands with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the UAE administration.

The ECB, as per Usmani, shall collaborate with the BCCI and the UAE government to get approval for the procedures which must be given the opportunity for fans to enter the venue. Throughout the backdrop of the COVID pandemic, the ECB will discuss the matter with the ICC to assess their supporter’s requirements.

ECB will work closely with the authorities to seek approval on protocols: Usmani

“As hosts, ECB will work closely with the authorities to seek approval on what protocols need to be followed — this includes fan attendance, we will then discuss it with the BCCI as well as the ICC to assess their spectator requirements. We want our ex-pat and Emirati sports-loving fans in the UAE to be able to watch the action from the stands,” Usmani was quoted as saying.

Despite the possibility of a Coronavirus Outbreak, the spectators are not permitted in the stadium even during IPL at this time; however, the BCCI and Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has devised a new strategy this time.

According to sources, the UAE government has approved the go-ahead for the stadium to be filled to 60% occupancy for the remaining games. On September 19, the 2nd phase of the IPL 2021 will commence with a match involving Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. Two teams have arrived at their current positions in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Over the duration of 27 days, 31 matches, comprising qualifiers, will be contested. BCCI authorities were unwilling to comment on the matter despite many restrictions.