Pitch Storm: Fans Lash Out as PBKS vs MI Gets Washed Away from Kolkata

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is under fire from fans and stakeholders alike after making a last-minute decision to move the IPL 2025 Qualifier 2 match between Punjab Kings (PBKS) and Mumbai Indians (MI) from Kolkata to Ahmedabad. This sudden change, driven by ongoing rain forecasts in Kolkata, has left ticket holders and supporters feeling frustrated, with many labeling the situation “a mockery.”

 

Key Highlights

 

•⁠  ⁠Last-Minute Venue Change: With heavy rain looming over Kolkata, the BCCI decided to shift the crucial Qualifier 2 to Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, just hours before the match was set to kick off.

 

•⁠  ⁠Fan Backlash: Thousands of fans who had already bought tickets and arranged travel to Kolkata voiced their anger and disappointment. Social media was ablaze with criticism, as fans accused the BCCI of poor planning and a lack of backup options.

 

•⁠  ⁠Logistical Nightmare: The abrupt venue change created chaos for broadcasters, sponsors, and ground staff, who had to rush to make adjustments at the new location.

 

•⁠  ⁠Reserve Day Policy: Critics noted that the IPL has previously utilized reserve days for playoff matches, raising eyebrows about why this option wasn’t on the table this time.

 

•⁠  ⁠Match Proceeds: Despite the uproar, the game proceeded in Ahmedabad, with both teams quickly adapting to the new circumstances.

 

Outlook

 

This incident underscores the urgent need for improved contingency planning and clearer communication from the BCCI for future IPL events. As the league continues to expand, prioritizing fan experience and logistical readiness will be essential to uphold its status as the world’s leading T20 tournament.

 

Source: ESPNcricinfo, Indian Express, Sportstar