Kings XI Punjab co-owner Ness Wadia has said that the IPL to be held in UAE will be the most-watched season in the tournament's history. However, he has advocated for daily testing of the players during the IPL. Wadia said, "Strict safety protocols have to be followed both for off-field and on-field activities to make the IPL safe and successful. They should not be compromised at all. I would want as much testing as possible and preferably daily. If I was a cricketer, I would be very happy in getting myself tested everyday. There is no harm in it.
Let us tell you that the IPL cannot be organized in a biological safe environment like the ongoing Test series between England and West Indies. Wadia said, "Under the rules (BioSecurity Protocol) made for players to play, a safe environment should be considered seriously, but I do not think that this is possible in an eight-team tournament."
He said, 'We are awaiting standard operating procedure (SOP) from BCCI. UAE has the highest testing rates and they have all the technology. The BCCI will need the help of the local administration to ensure adequate testing. Think logically, we have already done IPL in UAE. This time the protocol will be more. It is expected that the BCCI will take the necessary steps. I would not be surprised if this time the IPL turns out to be the most-watched tournament.
Let us tell you that Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Brijesh Patel confirmed on Friday that the much-awaited IPL will start in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 19 September and its final will be played on 8 November. The IPL Governing Council will meet next week to finalize and approve the program. It is said that the Cricket Board of India (BCCI) has conveyed its plan to the franchisees.