BCCI to hold annual Irani Cup match behind closed doors after Coronavirus pandemic: Report

On March 14, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shifted launch date of upcoming Indian Premier League season (IPL 2020) to April 15 instead of March 29. decision came in wake of massive threat caused by highly-contagious Coronavirus disease. Due to Coronavirus scare, final day of 2019-20 Ranji Trophy Final was played behind closed doors in Saurashtra Cricket Stadium on March 13.

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BCCI to hold Irani Cup match behind closed doors

Considering widespread impact of Coronavirus on sporting events, it is reported that upcoming Irani Cup match will also be held in an empty stadium. A senior BCCI official confirmed report by stating same to a leading news daily. Irani Cup is an annual tournament which features a one-off match between Ranji Trophy final winners and a Rest of India line-up. Originally scheduled to be held in Saurashtra Cricket Stadium between March 18 and 22, match is likely to follow ‘empty stadium’ routine.

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Irani Cup 2020: Saurashtra vs Rest of India

After a gruelling three months of tournament, Saurashtra emerged as Ranji Trophy final winners on March 13 to set up a Saurashtra vs Rest of India Irani Cup clash. upcoming Irani Cup match will be 58th edition of tournament.

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Coronavirus’ impact on cricket

Apart from Indian domestic cricket tournaments, Coronavirus has also impacted several international bilateral tours. Ind vs SA and Aus vs NZ ODI series were called off after ir respective first matches. Additionally, upcoming SL vs Eng Test series has been postponed until furr tice.

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