UAE emerges as the optional venue for the LPL

By Bipin Dani

The UAE has emerged as a possible venue for the Lanka Premier League (LPL). 

If the Health Ministry in Sri Lanka does not relax the quarantine rules for foreign players Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) may consider moving the tournament to the UAE, it is reliably learnt.

"The Lanka Premier League (LPL) will be held this year. If it is not happening in Sri Lanka, then it may be shifted to the UAE," a source told to this reporter on Tuesday. 

It will be a good option on the part of the organizers, if it is decided to shift the LPL there for several other factors. 

The Indian Premier League is already being hosted there, and the infrastructure is ready. A bio-secure bubble for the players, ground, wicket and entire set up is ready in the UAE. Secondly, the tournament’s promoters Innovative Production Group, has its office there.

Third and more importantly, the players are required to undergo a six-day quarantine in the UAE as opposed to 14 days in Sri Lanka.

"We need government permission to shift the tournament overseas," a source said. "But this possibility, which was discussed among the Local Organizing Committee members is not ruled out, if the Health Ministry is not relaxing the rules here," another source, said. 

"If it becomes mandatory to shift there the matches will be held in Sharjah (and may in Dubai also).”

"Of course, cost will be a major factor, if it is to move overseas but the option of reducing the matches to 13 (single round robin instead of double) can be considered". 

The source, however, further stressed, "Our first priority is to play in Sri Lanka only and the Sports Minister is trying to convince the authorities. Everything will be cleared on Wednesday. It is going to be a d-day", the source further added.