The tournament was suspended in May after several Covid-19 cases surfaced in its bio-bubble.
“The 14th season, which was postponed in May this year in view of the pandemic, will resume on September 19 with the blockbuster clash between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians in Dubai,” BCCI said in a statement.
BCCI announced the schedule of remaining VIVO IPL 2021 in UAE. Season 14 will resume on September 19 in D… https://t.co/mq7s1MTV2s
– Indian Premier League (@IPL) 1627220456000
A total of 31 matches will be played over a period of 27 days, including seven doubles headers (five were held in India).
After the CSK-MI clash, the action will shift to Abu Dhabi where Kolkata Knight Riders will play against Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Sharjah will host its first game on September 24 when Royal Challengers Bangalore take on CSK.
A total of 13 matches will be held in Dubai, 10 in Sharjah and 8 in Abu Dhabi.
“There will be 7 double headers (5 matches already played in India – 12 matches in total) with the first match starting at 3:30 PM IST (2:00 PM Gulf Standard Time). All evening matches will be played at 7:30 PM IST. IST. 6:00 PM Gulf Standard Time),” the statement added.
The final league match will be played on October 8 between RCB and Delhi Capitals.
The first qualifier will be played in Dubai on 10 October, Eliminator and Qualifier 2 will be played in Sharjah on 11 and 13 October respectively, with Dubai hosting the final on 15 October.
The 2020 edition was held entirely in the UAE due to the pandemic.
It is learned that UAE’s standard quarantine rules and health protocols applicable to everyone entering the country will also apply for IPL teams. The tournament is set to be held closed doors once again to begin at least the remaining 31 matches in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.
Members of the Indian team and all English players who will be participating in the IPL will fly from Manchester to Dubai on a charter flight on 15 September.
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