Privileged to host IPL, says ECB Chairman and UAE Minister

Our Correspondent

The UAE takes with extreme importance its responsibility to bring the prestigious Indian Premier League (IPL) to the vast cricket-loving global community, said His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, who is also the Chairman of the Emirates Cricket Board.

The ECB confirmed on August 11 that it received official clearance from the BCCI to host the 13th edition of the highly popular tournament.

Sheikh Nahyan said: “We feel extremely privileged to host what could be considered the pinnacle-event of our favourite sport. The magnitude of being in a position to bring the IPL to the vast cricket-loving global community, during current events which have greatly impacted our daily lives, is one we take with extreme importance.”

“This is undoubtedly the highest profile cricketing event to be held in the UAE and our team will continue to support all facets (of the tournament) and work toward delivering a successful event for the enjoyment of all sports-fans; here in the UAE, in India and across the world.”

“The UAE is well-versed in delivering successful events – sporting and lifestyle – and we remain in very close contact with the BCCI, IPL committees, the UAE Government and Ministries, our Health Authority, as well as many other entities, who are all experts in their respective fields and it is our collective intent that the tournament be played in a safe, enjoyable environment. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring ‘IPL 2020’ to the UAE,” added Al Nahayan.

Scheduled to be played from September 19 to November 10, 2020 the IPL will be played across the UAE – in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah.