NEW DELHI: Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Rajeev Shukla announced on Wednesday that the playoffs and the final this year will beginning from 7 pm, rather than the usual 8 pm prime time slot.
While the stated reason for the move was due to matches finishing as late as 12 am courtesy slow over rates, something which isn’t viewer-friendly, it is worth noting that IPL host broadcaster had been pitching for a 7 pm start for IPL matches from the get go.
“The IPL is what it is because of its fans and the tournament has over the years been followed avidly both on the ground and on television at homes. So, keeping the interest of the fans in mind, it was decided that the play-off games and the final will start an hour earlier. So, instead of the 8pm start, the games will start at 7pm.” Shukla was quoted saying to Cricketnext.
“It gets difficult not only for those at the stadium, but also for those watching on television as students and office-goers also need to get back to their respective stuff next morning and it helps if the game starts an hour earlier,” he added.
Shukla also confirmed that Kolkata will be replacing Pune in hosting the Eliminator and Qualifier 2.
“The GC (Governing Council) has confirmed that Kolkata will host the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 on May 23 and 25 respectively,” Shukla said.
“We are happy to host the play-off matches and are looking forward to it,” Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) joint-secretary Avishek Dalmiya said on the development.
