The IPL has advanced its schedule by a week to fulfil the broadcaster’s demand. The demand was to reduce the number of double-headers. They demanded so because afternoon matches don’t attract the same advertising rates as night matches.
The proposed start is September 19, instead of September 26. It may result in international cricketers facing trouble in getting requisite clearance from the health authorities in the UAE. This also means that some cricketers who are to feature in England’s series against Australia will miss the start of the IPL.
“If the key players are released after the T20 series [which ends on September 10], it would give them enough time to settle down and get into the IPL zone before the first game,” stated a franchise official on condition of anonymity.
The eight teams have to reach the UAE in the second half of August for a prolonged preparatory camp.