26 March,2022 12:58 PM IST | Mumbai | Harit Joshi
Vijay Patil/Courtesy: Vijay Patil`s Facebook
On hosting the IPL league stage in Maharashtra:
Huge opportunity for cricket lovers to watch world-class cricketing action in the city. And it's the first time such a situation has occurred - hosting the entire league phase of the IPL in Maharashtra. I'd like to express my gratitude to the BCCI for entrusting us with this responsibility.
And of course to the government of Maharashtra, our honorable Sharad Pawarji, the BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and BCCI secretary Jay Shah, so I think everyone has put their best foot forward to host the IPL in this state.
On the challenges amidst the pandemic:
Considering the situation, the sanctity of the bio-secure bubble is of paramount importance. It is diligently and meticulously crafted. The venue operations team are working together to ensure the bio bubbles are strictly maintained. As far as player safety is concerned, it is something we are closely working on. A green corridor and ease of transportation for the players is in place to ensure seamless travel between venues has been created.
This is the first time [amidst the pandemic], spectators will be allowed into stadiums, although initially the capacity will be restricted to 25 per cent only.
I think all the stadiums are now geared up to welcome the spectators as per the government and BCCI mandate. Come the first game, the fans will be able to enjoy the game in a great environment.
On the groundsmen not being in bubble:
The BCCI has put in place a great plan to maintain the sanctity of the bio bubble whether it is testing or maintaining social distancing, santisation of the ground area, dressing room etc. There is a meticulous SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) in place across all venues. It is quite a stringent SOP, which is being diligently followed. Also, the situation between now and the second wave was different. With experience, people have learnt to deal with the virus. With the collective spirit of all the stakeholders, we will be able to successfully pull off the IPL.
On the response from Mumbai and Maharashtra Cricket Associations as well as CCI:
Mumbai is probably the only cricketing city in the world with three world-class venues in close proximity.
Cricket of this quality coming to our city provides a huge opportunity for the fans. So, these are moments to savour.
When suggestions were made about Maharashtra hosting the IPL, everyone - Mumbai Cricket Association, the Maharashtra Cricket Association and the Cricket Club of India (CCI) management,
- were proactive in hosting the tournament. It is because of this collective effort that we are in a situation wherein a cricketing bonanza awaits our city.
On cricket coming back to DY Patil Stadium, Navi Mumbai:
It is an opportunity for cricketing fans in that region to witness world-class performances. The jurisdiction of the Mumbai Cricket Association extends to far-flung suburbs. Some of our best talent reside in the suburbs. There is a large population who live in the suburbs, so this is an opportunity for them. Personally, I am happy that I could contribute to this development.
