South Africa has been confirmed as host of the second Indian Premier League (IPL), following a meeting between the event’s organisers and Cricket South Africa (CSA) chief executive Gerald Majola.
The venue was moved from India because of concerns that adequate security could not be provided. South Africa was chosen over England for the tournament which takes place next month, beginning April 18.
Reuters reports that IPL chairman Lalit Modi said, “We are very happy to confirm that South Africa will host the 2009 DLF Indian Premier League tournament.
“We would like to thank Cricket South Africa very much for the support they have given us over the past few days, which has helped us to come to this decision.
“The South African public loves T2O cricket and CSA successfully hosted the inaugural ICC World T20. Both these factors weighed heavily in South Africa’s favour, and we look forward to a successful and exciting tournament being held at venues throughout South Africa.”
Reuters reports Majola as saying, “The organisers can be assured that they have the full support of CSA’s structures and the South African public to stage a successful tournament.
“This event will strengthen the ties even further between South African and Indian cricket, as well as binding our nations even closer together.
“We are looking forward to hosting some of the world’s best cricketers, and we can assure them they will be provided with the very best facilities to show their skills.”
