Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Brijesh Patel says that is very satisfying to see this edition of the cash-rich league taking place after so many hurdles. The COVID-19 pandemic had initially postponed the league from March to April but now has been shifted to the UAE after rising cases in India. 

"It is very satisfying to see IPL happening after all the hurdles on the way. Finally, we are able to make it happen but this is only the beginning as it is a long tournament so we cannot afford to be complacent but definitely, it is very satisfying," Patel told ANI.

"I think cricket fans were bit disappointed when it was (IPL) postponed and nothing was certain about the fate for the tournament. But now they (fans) are looking forward to seeing some live cricket so I feel this year's viewership will be highest ever and this year's IPL should be bigger than last year as well," he added.

Patel also insisted that the BCCI has taken every possible measure to ensure safety of the players and support staff. For the first time ever, the IPL will also be played behind closed doors as a precaution.

“There is no hold on the pandemic, no one could control it so we had to keep waiting and watching and find out that where and when we can play. It was in no one's hand it could be anywhere but UAE had controlled the COVID-19 situation. We are taking care of all the guidelines and giving priority to the health and safety of players which is no doubt paramount for us," the IPL Chairman said.

IPL 2020 will be held in three UAE cities – Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi – between September 19 and November 8.