Our Bureau
Chandigarh
Earlier, the news broke out that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was shifting the venues for the last leg of the Indian Premier League due to the weather conditions over there. It is now being reported that a former legend of Indian cricket has had a major role in convincing the main decision-makers to shift the venue to Punjab.
It was reported that former Indian spinner, Harbhajan Singh has played a huge role in convincing the BCCI officials to shift the venues from Hyderabad and Kolkata to New Chandigarh and Ahmedabad. He has ensured that the stadium in New Chandigarh has all the facilities required to host the IPL matches and also has the advantage in weather conditions.
“Harbhajan pushed hard for it. He convinced key decision-makers that New Chandigarh is ready, both in terms of facilities and audience enthusiasm. He wasn’t just lobbying; he was deeply involved in inspection visits, pitch discussions, and logistical planning,” a source reported.
Harbhajan, who was appointed as the Chief Cricketing Advisor for the Punjab Cricket Association has been doing the heavy lifting promoting cricket in the region after his retirement. He has never shied down and has always voiced his opinion regarding the lack of both international and IPL matches. Punjab has had a lack of matches ever since their main venue in Mohali has spiralled down in terms of quality in recent times.
The BCCI has announced the venues for the playoffs which were not announced while the rescheduled matches were announced after the break. The New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh will be hosting the Qualifier 1 which will be played between the 1st and 2nd seated teams on the points table. The match will be played on May 29th. The stadium will also be hosting the Eliminator clash between the 3rd and 4th team on the points table on May 30th.
Qualifier 2 will be played between the loser of Qualifier 1 and the winner of Eliminator in the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The stadium is the largest cricket stadium in the world and will be hosting the finals of the IPL 2025.
