IPL 2018: Franchises unhappy with proposed match time changes

The IPL 2018 is fast approaching and the build up to the mega event is pacing up with every passing day. There are news and developments about the tournament coming up every now and then. Recently, reports had surfaced that the match timings of the 2018 edition of the popular T20 league will be revised. It was reported that the 4 pm match would be pushed to the 5:30 pm slot.

At the same time, the 8 pm match would be preponed to the 7 pm slot. This move was reportedly suggested by the broadcasters, Star India, who feel that such match timings will improve the ratings of the tournament. While the move could potentially benefit the organizers, the franchises are least impressed with the suggestions. The recent reports in Times of India suggest that the franchises are unhappy with these proposed match time changes.

They feel betrayed to have not been involved in the decision making of such a crucial issue of IPL 2018. Three franchises separately told TOI that “we heard it from the media about the match timings being changed. The least the BCCI could’ve done is engaged with the teams before taking a decision like that.”

“The franchises are not in agreement with this proposal and will take it up with the IPL. They are in fact quite not very happy that something as important as this hasn’t even discussed with them,” sources familiar with developments said.

Final decision yet to be taken

Meanwhile, Rajeev Shukla, the head of the IPL Governing Council, has maintained that the decision is yet to be taken. He noted that the suggestion from the broadcaster has been taken in but a final call will be taken later. Another official confirmed that Star India feels that the changed match timings would benefit the ratings.

“The IPL Governing Council considered the request of the broadcaster to have a 7 pm match. The final decision will be taken after the taking the views of the other stakeholders,” Shukla told TOI.

“Star Sports is of the view that the matches need to start early to ensure that the people in the interiors watch the action too. It wil improve the ratings,” said a GC official.

Stay tune to crictracker.com to get recent updates on IPL 2018 and other interesting cricket news in the world today!