Maharashtra to increase crowd capacity at IPL 2022 matches

For the first time since the pandemic-hit edition, the Indian Premier League (IPL) returned to its home country and saw the return of the crowd in stadiums. Following the success of the opening week and continued decline of infection in the country, the Maharashtra government is looking to increase the crowd capacity by 50% from the first week of April. The latest IPL match update is here!

“With the number of Covid-19 cases having gone down drastically, the state government is keen to increase the crowd capacity in IPL-15 to 50%,” a source told news. “Considering that last year’s IPL had to be shifted out of the country due to the second wave, it wants to play safe for now. The BCCI wants a review of the crowd capacity around April 15, when the first phase of the league will be over.”

At the time of writing, the Maharashtra government and BCCI agreed to allow a 25% capacity crowd to the stadium. In previous editions during the pandemic era, 50% crowds were allowed in the UAE where the entire 2020 season was played. With the continued easing of restrictions and decrease in the infection each day, it is likely that the BCCI and the host city will allow a bigger crowd.

According to a journalist K. Shriniwas Rao, BCCI might allow close to 65-70% capacity crowd for the matches. He added that the announcement will be made in a few days. Former ICC, BCCI and MCA president Sharad Pawar also expressed optimism in this regard, citing a good discussion with Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Both are on the same page on this issue.

The new edition of men’s IPL kicked off with defending champions Chennai Super Kings up against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium. The 10-team tournament will compete in 70 matches across four venues in two Maharashtra cities, divided into two groups. CSK is the reigning champion, having won their fourth IPL title in the 2021 season.

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