IPL '18: Chennai's loss may become Pune's gain

Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], April 11 (ANI): Pune might be the new host of the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches that were moved out of Chennai, said chairman Rajiv Shukla on Wednesday.

The ongoing 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, which were scheduled to be held in Chennai, was moved out of the state in wake of protests during the venue's first match and threats to disrupt more fixtures.

"We had decided to hold IPL matches in Chennai on police's assurance that adequate security would be provided. But today Chennai Police informed IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK) that they won't be able to do it. Keeping this in mind, the other six matches will be held at other venues," Shukla told ANI.

"There are a number of venues, but most likely Pune will be chosen as an alternative venue in lieu of Chennai. The proposal has been sent to the Governing Council for approval," he added.

The news of the change in venue came just a day after Chennai Super Kings made a happy homecoming at MA Chidambaram Stadium and went on to beat Kolkata Knight Riders in the last-over thriller on Tuesday

However, the clash was marred by controversy as 21 Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) party workers were arrested and sent to Puzhal Central Prison for holding protests over Cauvery issue outside Chennai's Chepauk Stadium in a bid to stop the match.

The arrested party workers were charged for beating up policemen on duty who were deployed to curb the protest and ensure the match to be held between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was played without trouble.

The protestors were demanding that the IPL matches not be held when a more pressing matter - the Centre's failure to constitute the Cauvery Management Board (CMB) - was at the fore. (ANI)