High time for BCCI to start planning for the coming year - Arun Dhumal

In its recent meeting, ICC agreed to deliver a verdict regarding the fate of the T20 World Cup in mid-July. Peeved by the delay in issuing the judgement, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to begin preparations for the coming year.

In an interview with TOI, BCCI treasurer, Arun Dhumal revealed that it is high time for the Board to set up a plan to stage the Indian Premier League in the October-November window, without having to wait for the decision of the apex body.

"The year started on a horrible note and there's been no relief on any front. But as time goes by, we need to take things head-on and ensure that we remain prepared for any eventuality. Cricket is no different. It is time for the BCCI to start planning for the year ahead, " Arun Dhumal was quoted as saying to TOI.

Dhumal claimed that domestic leagues across the globe have paved the way for the sport to be restored during such trying circumstances. 

"The NBA is beginning in the US in a protected zone. The English Premier League (EPL) is on and so are the FA Cup matches. Bundesliga was the first to show the way. Even Australia's domestic rugby league is about to begin. What BCCI is talking about is the need to make contingency plans from September." 

The BCCI treasurer also spoke about the numerous benefits of hosting a domestic league, considering that it does not hinge on external factors and can be facilitated within a suitable window. 

"So, what are we witnessing here? Domestic leagues are in focus while the Olympics and the World Cups are taking a back seat. That's because local leagues don't depend on too many external factors. Revenues are more localised; gate receipts aren't such a huge concern and local leagues can be trimmed and planned to suit particular windows. They're also television-friendly because they can be adjusted to suit local prime time TV viewership, " Dhumal further added.

Taking into account the latest developments, it is completely apparent that BCCI is fully committed to organizing the IPL later this year.

[TOI inputs]