The absence of fans in the cricket stadium doesn't contribute much to the degree of enthusiasm. It is very hard to imagine a match with empty stands, especially in a spectator sport like cricket. 

While several high profile leagues are slowly allowing fans back into the thick of the action, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) is considering getting the spectators back to the stands for the second phase of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League. 

Speaking to Gulf News, ECB General Secretary Mubashir Usmani stated that the board will have the word with BCCI and UAE government about allowing fans back into the stadium for the rest of the IPL 2021 season.

“As hosts, ECB will work closely with the authorities to seek approval on what protocols need to be followed – this includes fan attendance, we will then discuss it with the BCCI as well as the ICC to assess their spectator requirements. We want our ex-pat and Emirati sports-loving fans in the UAE to be able to watch the action from the stands,’’ he was quoted as saying. 

According to The Telegraph, the UAE government has given the green light to allow 60 per cent capacity of the crowd in the stadium for the remaining matches after a detailed discussion with the ECB and BCCI. The second phase of IPL 2021 will resume with the clash between Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians on September 19. In total, 31 matches, including qualifiers, will be played over the course of 27 days.

[Gulf News and The Telegraph input]