The Indian Premier League (IPL) is all set to get underway on September 19 this year. But the schedule is yet to be finalised with less than three weeks to go for the T20 extravaganza. Earlier it was the travelling protocols from Dubai to Abu Dhabi which created problems and then the COVID-19 cases of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) delayed the proceedings.

CSK were supposed to face the defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) in the season opener apparently. But the quarantine of the yellow army has been extended after around 10-12 members of their camps were tested positive last week. Reports are now emerging that the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) will replace the CSK in the opening game and face MI.

“It could possibly be Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) because in the first match, you’ll need star players on the field. If MS Dhoni is missing, then it has to be Virat Kohli. While it’s not certain yet if CSK will or will not play the opening game, the governing council has to remain prepared for a switch,” sources close to the developments told the Times of India.

Franchises unhappy with the BCCI

Meanwhile, it has also been reported that the franchises aren’t pleased with the BCCI in terms of communication. There have been a few issues in terms of facilities and the teams are yet to receive the tracking devices as well. “We have not heard anything from the BCCI-IPL ever since we flew in here. The other day, lights went off at the practice venue when a team was training. Team’s staff hasn’t received the FOB (tracking device) bands yet.

“What’s happening is that they (BCCI-IPL) are ‘reacting’ to things. We have to raise a question for someone to tell us ‘we will revert’. There’s no communication,” one of the franchise officials said. It seems that there is no co-ordination whatsoever since the teams have landed in the middle-east and the BCCI will have to come up with the schedule soon along with other required things to give clarity to the franchises.