IPL 2024
Both BCCI and the franchise expressed concern about the possible conditions they will get following the WPL matches there © BCCI
One notable observation from the initial batch of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 matches, for which the schedule was unveiled by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday, is that the Delhi Capitals play their first two home games in Visakhapatnam. This unexpected move has caught the attention of IPL watchers, particularly considering that Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium is a customary IPL venue.
Upon inquiry, it has been revealed to Cricbuzz that the BCCI opted against scheduling matches in Delhi due to concerns over potential wear and tear on the ground, attributed to its hosting of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) fixtures. The second half of the WPL, including the Eliminator and the final, are set to take place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Both the BCCI and the franchise expressed uncertainty regarding the condition of the ground following 11 matches back to back at the ground.
The WPL encounters are scheduled to be held in Delhi from March 5 to 17. The WPL, incidentally, kicks off on Friday (February 23) at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
“We felt it necessary to allow the ground some respite following the WPL matches,” conveyed a BCCI official familiar with the decision-making process. Multiple sources familiar with the matter have confirmed to Cricbuzz that the Delhi Capitals will subsequently contest their remaining five league games at their designated home ground.
The decision to play in Visakhapatnam was a franchise call and it was confirmed by the BCCI. “Having chosen to play their first two home matches in Visakhapatnam, the Delhi Capitals will first host the Chennai Super Kings on Sunday, 31st March in the port city and will then face the Kolkata Knight Riders at the same venue on Wednesday, 3rd April,” the BCCI said releasing the schedule.
© Cricbuzz
