The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is in a sticky wicket. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 commences in fewer than 3 weeks. Yet, we don’t have a schedule. The BCCI is restrained by state elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Assam. After the dates for these elections are out, the Indian board will announce the schedule.
IPL monitors LPG shortage situation
But that isn’t the biggest concern at the moment. The war in West Asia could seriously impact the league. Just yesterday, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued a statement regarding the shortage of LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). In the last couple of days, hotel owners in Bengaluru and Chennai, home of IPL franchises, have flagged the shortage of LPG. Some hotel owners have already been forced to restrict their menu to optimise the usage of LPG.
This poses a major challenge. While IPL is dear to many in the nation, if push comes to shove, it can’t be prioritised over hospitals or educational institutions. IPL Governing Council (GC) Chairperson Arun Dhumal has confirmed that the BCCI is monitoring the situation but will make the necessary calls.
“We are reviewing the development. Since this is a evolving situation, nothing can be said as of now. But given the requirement of the situation, we will take a call accordingly,” Dhumal told The New Indian Express.
Players’ & coaches’ arrival to be impacted due to airspace closure
But that isn’t all. Due to the airspace closure, IPL franchises will struggle to operate at 100%. Several players and support staff members could find it difficult to join their respective camps.
Players and support staff members of the South Africa and West Indies cricket teams, who were knocked out of the T20 World Cup 2026 on March 4 and 1, respectively, remain stuck in India. The England cricket team, who were eliminated on March 5, were lucky enough to leave just two days later. The airspace closure won’t affect those from countries like Australia and New Zealand.
If the war in West Asia continues, the airspace closure will persist. Considering there are no direct flights to India from the Caribbean and Africa, one typically needs to take connecting flights. For that, Dubai is the primary hub, but temporary airspace restrictions have been placed in the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
The airspace has been partially opened with limited departures from Dubai International Airport (DXB), Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), and Zayed International Airport (AUH). But one major incident, and it will all be closed once again. Not to forget, there might be a fuel shortage. One can’t rule out players pulling out either. Some might find it easier not to travel to India for IPL 2026 via West Asia.
Cricket
IPL 2026 schedule to be announced on March 12, BCCI breaks silence on delay
