Sourav Ganguly gets involved in BCCI operations again

Cricket fans gathered outside Eden Gardens to protest the reported decision by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to relocate the IPL 2025 playoffs from Kolkata. Former India captain and ex-BCCI President Sourav Ganguly dropped a huge statement on the controversy regarding the final.

Following a one-week pause, the IPL 2025 season resumed on Saturday, May 17. Eden Gardens in Kolkata was set to host the final on May 25 as KKR are the defending champions. The BCCI has yet to confirm venues for the playoffs and final in the updated schedule for the remainder of the tournament.

Sourav Ganguly Confident Eden Gardens Will Retain IPL 2025 Final

The BCCI is reportedly planning to relocate the IPL 2025 final from Kolkata. As per The Times of India, the potential shift in venue for both the playoffs and the final is being considered due to possible weather-related interruptions and logistical issues.

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Sourav Ganguly has said that the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) could retain the IPL 2025 final at Eden Gardens. The former India captain said discussions with the BCCI are ongoing and added that moving such a major fixture isn’t a simple decision.

“No, no, we’re trying—talking to the BCCI. Is it that easy to shift the final? It’s Eden’s Playoffs, and I’m sure everything will be sorted. I’m very hopeful,” said Sourav Ganguly at the All India Invitation Inter-School Regatta event.

BCCI Has a Very Good Relationship with the CAB - Sourav Ganguly

Before the IPL suspension, Kolkata Knight Riders had completed all seven of their home matches. The playoffs were assigned to one of the six other selected cities. This decision sparked frustration among local fans, who protested outside Eden Gardens after Kolkata lost the chance to host the IPL 2025 final.

Sourav Ganguly expressed optimism that ongoing discussions between the Cricket Association of Bengal and the BCCI would bring a favorable outcome for Kolkata. Ganguly also added that protests wouldn’t help much.

“Kolkata has finished its league matches, so Eden is not there in the first list. Protest doesn’t help much. BCCI has a very good relationship with the Cricket Association of Bengal,” said Ganguly about the matter.

IPL 2025 Playoff Venues Yet to Be Revealed Due to Weather

On May 12, the BCCI announced the updated IPL 2025 schedule, but it did not specify venues for the three playoff matches or the final. According to the revised schedule, Qualifier 1 will be played on May 29. The Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the final will take place on May 30, June 1, and June 3, respectively.

Kolkata was originally set to host the second qualifier and the final. However, with increased chances of bad weather, the venue might be moved. Kolkata Knight Riders were knocked out of the tournament after their match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) was abandoned due to rain on May 17.

Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Sunrisers Hyderabad have already been eliminated from playoff contention.

Also read: KL Rahul’s batting position changed yet again by Delhi Capitals for remainder of IPL 2025