BCCI Attributes Low Ratings For Eliminating Diwali Weekend From IPL Scheduling Window

The BCCI has reportedly fixed the window as September 26 to November 8 for IPL 2020, a tournament which generates a massive tally of income for the board. However, it has also emerged that the host broadcasters are unhappy that BCCI has not extended the extravaganza till Diwali weekend (November 14). UAE might most likely play as hosts for the edition.

Also Read: Mitchell Santner Declares IPL As The ‘Pinnacle’ Of All T20 Tournaments

The rapidly magnifying cases of COVID-19 has indeed made it implausible for India to host the lucrative competition. The initial commencing date, which was of March 29, got pushed to April 15. Nevertheless, that was when the pandemic began exploding in the country, resulting in postponing it indefinitely. With no clarity on its betterment in India, the BCCI plans to stage it in UAE to avoid substantial monetary losses.

Speaking to IANS, a BCCI official said that the broadcast rating are not immense during Diwali and BARC (Broadcast Audience Research Council) ratings have been not so productive during that timeline.

It is the reason why even the Indian team, who plays plenty of cricket throughout the year, are also given a break during that time. They claimed they see the festival as one of the most auspicious occasions and players should be able to spend time with their families.

“We can always sit down and discuss the matter with Star India although we have discussed BARC ratings with them in the past as well since they not only broadcast IPL, but also have the rights to broadcast Indian cricket. The Diwali weekend actually sees a dip in BARC ratings and that is why we have seen our national team generally take a break at that point in time,” the official said.

We can always discuss this with the broadcasters again if there is any sort of confusion: BCCI representative

The official further explained that the athletes must get their well-deserved breaks to freshen up and be with their families during Diwali celebrations. It is the only reason why the league has not been lengthened and that they can hold discussions with the broadcasters if there remains a confusion.

“Not only do the players get a well-deserved break, but also spend quality time with near and dear ones during one of the biggest celebrations in the country. We can always discuss this with the broadcasters again if there is any sort of confusion. This is the sole reason why the IPL wasn’t extended into the Diwali weekend,” the official added.

Also Read: Aakash Chopra Reckons Hardik Pandya And Ravindra Jadeja Might Not Find A Place In The Test Team For Australian Tour