IPL 2020: Kings XI Punjab, Delhi Capitals Involve In A Turf War Over Hosting Matches At Ekana Stadium

Ahead of IPL 2020 auction, Preity Zinta-owned Kings XI Punjab and JSW-owned Delhi Capitals are involved in a turf war for Ekana Stadium in Lucknow. Both the franchises want to make the new stadium as their second home for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League.  However, the final decision is yet to be made by the officials of the Ekana Stadium.

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Over the years, Feroz Shah Kotla, which was renamed as Arun Jaitley stadium served as the home venue for the Delhi franchise. Even now, it will be their main venue, but the owners want to extend their fanbase by taking the rights to host Delhi matches in Ekana Stadium Lucknow. Much to the same, Kings XI are not happy with the turn out of spectators for matches in Indore; thus, they want to bag the rights of the new venue.

We are yet to take a decision – Uday Sinha

Speaking to IANS regarding the same, the chairman-cum-managing director of Ekana Group, Uday Sinha, stated that both the franchises are eager to make the venue their second home. He further revealed that the final decision would be taken after discussing with BCCI, franchises and the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association.

“We are speaking to both Kings XI as well as Delhi Capitals, and we are yet to come to a decision on this. We will have to wait and see how it goes as the views of the BCCI and UPCA will also be taken into account apart from the discussions that are held with the two franchises,” he stated.

Revenue generated in the first game at Ekana Stadium was a record:

Further, Uday Sinha explained that the stadium has excellent facilities for the players and also registered massive numbers when India and West Indies locked horns in a T20I game. It was a debut game for the venue. It is also one of the largest international cricket stadiums in India with a seating capacity of over 50000. It currently serves as the home ground for Afghanistan National Cricket Team.

“It is one of the best stadiums in the country and feels really good to see the interest. Also, the revenue generated for the game between India and West Indies (debut game at the venue) was a record,” Uday Sinha smiled while revealing the advantages of the venue.

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Well, it would be interesting to see how things would pan out for both the franchises. Kings XI Punjab is ahead in the race, as they are requesting for a change in venue for a couple of years now. Meanwhile, the auctions for IPL 2020 is inching closer with the dates fixed on December 19 in Kolkata.