The Indian premier League may be the highest-profile format of cricket in the world yet the future of the games seems likely to be away from its founding country.
Reports suggest that the eighth edition of the IPL is almost certain to partially move from India after government officials said they would not be able to provide adequate security throughout the season.
The cash-rich Twenty20 tournament would clash with the Indian elections in 2014, meaning dates prior to the 11th May, would not be capable of hosting the games.
“Due to general elections, it will be difficult to provide adequate security to IPL matches,” Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde told reporters in India.
It is believed that South Africa is the favourite nation to benefit from the change of venue with the rainbow country set to capitalise on a host of fixtures.
Delhi Daredevils’ chief coach Gary Kirsten, who recently resigned Kevin Pietersen, hinted earlier this year that he thought the season would move to South Africa, saying he was buying pacers to coincide with the change of venue.
Meanwhile IPL chairman Ranjib Biswal, added: “We are in constant touch with franchises; we have taken them into confidence in the last two days and we held a series of meetings with them.
“We have made our stand clear. They appreciated our concerns and they have given us cooperation on this matter.”
The final decision taken in regard to the IPL hosts is set to take place on the 28th February with the eight-week season to begin in April.
