IPL 2022: Here are the cities in line to become base for new franchises

While the 2021 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) isn’t concluded yet, many eyes are on the 2022 edition. After all, two new teams are set to come in the picture, making IPL a 10-team tournament. Notably, eight sides have been part of the gala competition since the 2014 season. Hence, it will be interesting to see how the tournament expansion pans out.

Notably, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to roll out the tender document to invite bids for the two new franchises. With IPL being arguably the most celebrated T20 competition worldwide, many prominent firms and business tycoons are in line to become own the teams. As per reports, the two biddings of both teams will start at INR 2000 crore. Hence, BCCI can be expected to add over INR 5000 crore to their kitty.

Ahmedabad, Lucknow likely to become news bases

Meanwhile, the bases of the two new teams haven’t been finalised yet. As per the Times of India, Ahmedabad and Lucknow are the front runners to become new bases due to the stadium in the venue. Earlier this year, world’s largest cricket infrastructure, the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium was inaugurated in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It has a capacity of over 1.10 lakh.

The capital of Uttar Pradesh – Lucknow – can also become the base of the new city. The city has a world-class infrastructure in the form of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium, also called the Ekana Cricket Stadium). A dense population in the city would further prompt BCCI to consider Lucknow.

Cities like Nagpur, Raipur, Pune, Visakhapatnam, Ranchi are also in fray to become part of IPL. However, none of these venues are likely to be considered over Ahmedabad or Lucknow. Meanwhile, companies with only INR 3000 crore turnover can bid franchises. Hence, it will be interesting to see how the auction pans out.

Meanwhile, cricket fans are currently waiting for the second leg of IPL 2021. The gala competition gets underway on September 19 with all the remaining matches taking place in the United Arab Emirates. With half of the season already done and dusted, the tournament won’t be the same for all eight teams. While some will fight for survival, a few are on the verge of securing a place in the playoffs.