IPL 2019 could be held in UAE

IPL 2018 proved to be a massive hit. With all teams getting a new look this season, the competitive nature of the league got a great impetus.

Right till the end there were 5 teams that were vying for those final two playoff spots, something that helped that viewership skyrocket.

But the biggest reason for the success of this year’s IPL was the successful return of CSK. MS Dhoni’s return to form helped CSK get the revival they deserved and made this IPL season one to remember.

IPL 2019 should be another big hit, but it has taken a severe hit a year before it has even started.

With the general elections scheduled during the summer next year, the IPL might have to move outside the country, as adequate security measures might not be in place.

The IPL has twice previously been shifted out of India because of the general elections, once in 2009 when the entire tournament was held in South Africa and the second time in 2014 when the first 19 days of the tournament were held in UAE.

Reports in the Khaleej Times state that the IPL could be shifted to another country next year, with UAE emerging as the favourites as confirmed by Rajeev Shukla.

“If it clashes with those dates (of the elections) then we will not get security. Then for that period we will have to move it out overseas,” IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla said.

However, all the stakeholders want India’s marquee event to stay within Indian boundaries as only then will be the revenue be maximised.