IPL 2025 Final Relocation Sparks Political Controversy
The relocation of the IPL 2025 final from Kolkata to Ahmedabad has ignited a political storm, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accusing the BCCI of political motivations. BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla defended the decision, citing weather concerns and broadcaster input as key factors. Banerjee's remarks highlight her frustration over the perceived favoritism towards Gujarat, questioning the absence of matches in other states. This controversy raises questions about the intersection of sports and politics in India.
| Jun 2, 2025, 17:18 IST
IPL Final Shifted from Kolkata to Ahmedabad
The final match of IPL 2025 was initially scheduled to take place at Kolkata's Eden Gardens but has now been moved to Ahmedabad. This decision has drawn criticism from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who labeled it a politically motivated move. In response, BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla has addressed these allegations, stating that there should be no political interpretation regarding the match relocation.
Shukla elaborated that if the IPL schedule had not been postponed by a week, the final would have remained in Kolkata, with the playoffs held in Hyderabad. He explained that the decision to change the venue was influenced by weather forecasts, as broadcasters expressed concerns about potential rain in Kolkata during the scheduled dates. Consequently, Ahmedabad and Chandigarh were identified as locations with the least likelihood of rain, prompting the shift.
He emphasized that this situation is not unique to Kolkata, as matches have also been relocated from Hyderabad in the past, asserting that there is no political agenda behind these decisions.
Mamata Banerjee's Criticism
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the decision to move the IPL final from Kolkata, stating, "I do not build stadiums in my name or railway lines for self-promotion. Living as an ideal person is sufficient for me." She further questioned why matches are predominantly held in Gujarat, while states like Karnataka and Kerala are overlooked. Banerjee warned that if she spoke out, it could jeopardize the reputation that the government has built.
Political Implications of the Venue Change
VIDEO | West Bengal government, on Sunday, criticised the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) decision to relocate the playoff and final matches of the IPL from Kolkata to Gujarat, claiming that political considerations influenced it.
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Here's what BCCI Senior VP Rajeev… pic.twitter.com/tZNJ0kYdpv