IPL 2018: Change in Kings XI Punjab's home game schedule

What's the story?

Owing to logistical issues, the schedule for the home games of Kings XI Punjab for IPL 2018 is set to undergo changes. According to the revised dates will see the franchise playing their last four games in Indore.

“There were logistical difficulties that teams would have encountered had KXIP played their home games in Mohali in May. Therefore the IPL Governing Council has decided that the dates will be swapped and Indore will now host all their matches in May,” acting President CK Khanna told PTI.

In case you didn't know...

The Punjab side, set to be led by off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, has a new look to it ahead of the 2018 IPL, with Yuvraj Singh returning to the side after eight years, and the side retaining only Axar Patel ahead of the auctions.

The heart of the matter

The reason for the change in dates is due to the renovation work that will be going on at the Chandigarh Airport, which will be closed from May 12-31.

IPL's Governing Council decided that Punjab will play home games at Mohali on April 15, 19 and 23, while Indore will host four games (the last segment of the franchise's home matches) on May 4, 6, 12 and 14.

What's next?

The Kings XI Punjab will start their season against Delhi Daredevils, with the first game set to take place at the Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium on 8th April.

Author's take

The IPL, being a high-profile, two-month-long tournament, it's uncommon to have such logistical issues, especially with the frequency of cross-city traveling involved. The Punjab side is used to getting its home venues changed, having been subjected to similar situations in the past.

It remains to be seen whether the change in venues acts as an advantage to the side, who will start the season with a new look team, in an attempt to win their maiden IPL title.