Mumbai based IPL matches to go ahead as planned after Maharashtra government's nod

Given the concerning rise in the number of Covid-19 cases in Maharashtra, dark clouds were looming over hosting of the Mumbai leg matches. Few reports suggested that BCCI is considering Hyderabad and Indore as alternative venues to Mumbai. With just days to go before the start of IPL, rescheduling the matches was a massive ask. However, in a major relief, the Maharashtra Government has given its nod for hosting the matches in Mumbai. The state government has also allowed the teams to practice at Wankhede.

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"Considering the match-timings, teams practicing at the CCI and MCA are scheduled to practice in 2 sessions -- from 4 pm to 6.30 pm and 7.30 pm to 10 pm," wrote Srirang Gholap, Under Secretary of the Disaster Management, Relief and Rehabilitation department, in a letter issued to the BCCI.

The second wave of the Coronavirus has swept  Maharashtra, the worst affected state. The Uddhav Thackrey led government imposed section 144 and night curfew from 8 PM to 7 PM. However, the IPL teams have been given some relaxation and will be allowed to travel to the ground and back in the curfew.

"Permission has been requested for teams and the IPL staff (to) be allowed to practice inside the grounds after 8 pm and they may be allowed free movement from the ground to their respective hotels after the said time. Accordingly, permission is being hereby accorded for the said request subject to scrupulous adherence to the bio-bubble," stated the letter, according to India Today

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As many as 10 matches are to be played at the Wankhede Stadium in the league stages. Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings have set their camps in Mumbai.