The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a regular fixture in international cricket calendar considering its inception back in 2008. The achievement of has made the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) without a hesitation the richest cricketing body in the world and started many international careers.
The BCCI bring off a coup when they handled to successfully host even delayed the IPL 2020 in the United Arab Emirates at the spike of COVID-19 pandemic last year in the months of September and October. India could have assumed that hosting the T20 league in 2021 will be a much more easy task as compared to 2020 but worst enemy COVID-19 has thrown all their alteration and combinations out of the window.
The first game of the 14th edition of Indian Premier League is less than a week away on April 9 Friday, with title holder Mumbai Indians taking on Virat Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore but the global pandemic is hitting back with a revenge. On Sunday, April 4, as reported to official figures, India witnessed over 93,000 new COVID-19 cases, more than 10 times the number notice in the month of February.
The IPL and BCCI are not exempt to COVID-19 as well. On Saturday April 3, Delhi Capitals declared that star all-rounder Axar Patel had tested COVID-19 positive and is in isolation while media announced have also suggested that Royal Challengers Bangalore opener Devdutt Paddikal is also positive.
That’s not all, one member Chennai Super Kings content team and 10 members of IPL organizing committee along with Wankhede stadium groundmen have already tested positive as well. It is hard to say either BCCI is in confusion or not but Hyderabad and Indore have been put up as a backup venues if things in Mumbai get out of hand.
If international cricketers are giving concern to own and their families health, shouldn’t BCCI also be bothered about the health and well-being of their own cricketers. There is no doubt about the proficiency of BCCI, who were phenomenal in managing an unbreakable bio-bubble during IPL 2020 followed by home series between England with matches successfully taking place in Ahmedabad and Pune.
After all, their decision to allow crowds at Ahmedabad during the five match T20 series between England led to a COVID-19 outburst at IIM Ahmedabad. Even though crowds were banned from the third T20, there is no assurance that damage, like that bring to Axar Patel might have been done.
Cancellation of IPL 2021 will be an ultimate procedure and one which would really hit the BCCI hard. There are a lot of stakeholders tangled from host broadcasters to team and IPL official sponsor. Yet doesn’t human life and safety take preference over financial gains for one year, particularly when the world is dealing with global pandemic?
It will be intensely unfair of a franchise, like in a case of CSK in IPL 2020, if deluge of positive cases derail their 14TH IPL campaign. The question is if BCCI president Sourav Ganguly will be confident enough to take a big step and pull the plug in IPL 2021 at the last moment, to put cricketers safe from COVID-19?
BCCI NEWS
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) experienced an eventful year in 2021, marked by captivating cricket matches, groundbreaking decisions, and exceptional accomplishments. From organizing the Indian Premier League (IPL) amidst a global pandemic to hosting international series, the BCCI navigated through challenges with resilience and determination. This article provides an overview of the significant events and developments that shaped the BCCI's journey in 2021.
The IPL Continues to Reign Supreme
Despite uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, the BCCI successfully conducted the 14th edition of the IPL. Transitioning seamlessly from UAE in 2020, the IPL returned to its home grounds in India, creating a sense of normalcy and excitement among fans. The tournament showcased the remarkable talent of Indian and international cricketers, with teams like Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, and Chennai Super Kings emerging as strong contenders. BCCI's meticulous planning and effective execution ensured a safe and entertaining tournament that truly lived up to its reputation as the world's premier T20 league.
Moreover, the BCCI implemented innovative strategies to enhance the viewer experience, including interactive fan engagement initiatives and virtual fan walls. These efforts brought fans closer to the action and contributed to the electric atmosphere that surrounded the IPL.
International Cricket Returns to Indian Soil
In 2021, the BCCI played a pivotal role in bringing international cricket back to Indian shores. The Indian cricket team engaged in captivating series against England, Australia, and New Zealand, captivating fans and generating unparalleled excitement. The BCCI's commitment to creating bio-secure bubbles and strict adherence to health protocols ensured a safe environment for players and officials.
The highly anticipated series against England witnessed thrilling battles and remarkable performances from both sides. Meanwhile, the clash against Australia, also known as the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, provided an enthralling contest, with India emerging victorious against all odds. Additionally, the home series against New Zealand showcased the skill and tenacity of the Indian team, resulting in a hard-fought battle for supremacy.
BCCI's Initiatives for Women's Cricket
In 2021, the BCCI continued its efforts to promote and uplift women's cricket in India. The eagerly anticipated Women's T20 Challenge witnessed a surge in popularity, with top-notch cricketers showcasing their skills and inspiring the next generation.
The BCCI's announcement of a full-fledged Women's IPL in the near future generated significant excitement and was widely hailed as a monumental step towards gender equality in the sport. The women's cricket landscape in India received a boost with the introduction of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a T20 competition for women, providing a platform for emerging talents to shine.
Expansion of Domestic Cricket
Recognizing the significance of a strong domestic structure, the BCCI focused on expanding and enhancing domestic cricket in 2021. The introduction of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for women, a T20 competition, provided a platform for budding female cricketers to showcase their talent and gain exposure.
Additionally, the BCCI organized the Ranji Trophy and the Vijay Hazare Trophy for men, further nurturing the talent pool and creating a pathway for aspiring players to make their mark at the highest level. These initiatives underscored the BCCI's commitment to developing cricket at the grassroots and ensuring a bright future for the sport in India.
CONCLUSION
The BCCI's journey in 2021 was filled with remarkable achievements, as they successfully organized the IPL, facilitated the return of international cricket, and took significant steps towards the growth of women's cricket and domestic competitions. Their resilience, adaptability, and proactive approach in navigating through challenging circumstances were commendable.
As cricket enthusiasts eagerly look forward to the future, the BCCI's commitment to promoting and nurturing the sport promises to keep fans engaged and inspired. With its firm grip on the pulse of the game, the BCCI continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of cricket in India and the world.
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