The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially released the schedule for the initial 21 matches of the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. Reigning champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are set to kickstart the seventeenth edition with a thrilling encounter against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at Chepauk’s MA Chidambaram stadium on March 22.
This marks the ninth occasion that CSK will inaugurate the tournament by playing the first match, following their appearances in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2022, and 2023. Fans were given the opportunity to choose the opening game’s opponent, with more than 50% favoring a CSK vs RCB clash, making it the most anticipated fixture. The defending champions traditionally initiate the IPL season on their home turf.
In an unforeseen turn of events, Delhi Capitals (DC) will be compelled to play their initial two home fixtures in Vizag instead of the Arun Jaitely Cricket Stadium, which is not ready to host matches. The schedule unveiled covers the first 17 days of Season 17, spanning from March 22 to April 7, featuring four double headers within this timeframe.
However, the Board awaits the announcement of the General Election dates by the Election Commission of India to finalize the complete schedule for the IPL 2024 season. The initial fixtures were disclosed due to the impending general elections scheduled between April and May.
In a setback for the Delhi Capitals, star pacer Mohammed Shami has been ruled out of IPL 2024 due to an ankle injury and is set to undergo surgery in the UK, as per reports. This injury adds a challenging twist to the team’s preparations for the upcoming season.
While the BCCI remains optimistic about hosting the entire IPL season in India, there is a contingency plan to relocate it if necessary, mirroring instances in 2009 (South Africa), 2014 (UAE), and 2020 (UAE) due to the clash with the general elections or the impact of the Covid-19 crisis.
