The COVID-19 pandemic caused the BCCI to postpone the IPL indefinitely in April, sparking uncertainty about whether the tournament could even be held that year.
In April IPL was postponed for an indefinite time by BCCI due to the outbreak of coronavirus and doubts arose of whether it would be possible to host the league this year.
Willing to explore options outside India to ensure the games happened, the BCCI confirmed in July that the UAE would host the full tournament. This was the first time in a decade that the entire league was held on foreign soil.
With fans eagerly awaiting the start, the tournament officially kicked off on September 19. After roughly two months of play, it ended on a high note with the Mumbai Indians winning their fifth title.
During an interview with The Indian Express, BCCI Treasurer Arun Dhumal explained that they reduced expenses by nearly 35% compared to the previous year. This efficiency helped the board earn Rs. 4,000 crore from the season. Dhumal also highlighted a 25% increase in television ratings, noting that the season opener between the Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings was the most-watched opening game in history.
Dhumal also mentioned that the BCCI performed more than 30,000 COVID-19 tests during the tournament. He expressed gratitude to the medical staff, especially since 13 members of the CSK camp—including two players—had tested positive before the start. Fortunately, all 13 recovered in time to participate in the tournament.