The concert is set to take place on April 27
We feel extremely privileged to host what could be considered the pinnacle-event of our favourite sport. The magnitude of being in a position to bring the IPL to the vast cricket-loving global community, during current events which have greatly impacted our daily lives, is one we take with extreme importance.
Pavan Kapoor, India Ambassador to the UAE
I am very pleased that IPL 2020 is being held in the UAE. As a close partner of India, with a huge cricket fan following, the UAE is an ideal venue for this event, outside of India. I applaud the efforts of the UAE Government and all health agencies to ensure a secure environment for the conduct of the IPL, and wish all the players, associated staff and cricket lovers, a safe, successful and enjoyable event!
Dr Aman Puri, Consul-General of India
As the 13th edition of IPL is scheduled to kick off next week, I wish all the teams, BCCI, Emirates Cricket Board and cricket lovers all over the world a very successful and thrilling tournament. The spirit of IPL is best described as "never say no" and we salute this spirit and the resilience of all players. They are truly exhibiting that they will overcome fear, will follow best practices and give the entire world a message of hope and optimism. IPL 2020 also signifies the mutual confidence reposed by India and UAE in each other, and our ever-growing close relationship. Once again, wishing all the very best for a memorable IPL 2020.
Suhail Galadari, Co-Chairman of Galadari Brothers
It's great to see that the cricket frenzy, i.e., the Indian Premier League (IPL) coming home to the UAE. Although Covid-19 has marred our chances to see the event live in action, nonetheless it's a huge boost to the people's morale and to the spirit of sports. The global spotlight is definitely on the UAE as the tournament signifies the nation's confidence on resilience and its management. I wish the UAE, BCCI and IPL all the very best. May the best team win.
Zayed Abbas, Board Member of Emirates Cricket Board
As the Official Spokesperson and Board Member of the ECB, I would like to say that it is a privilege for the UAE to host one of the biggest leagues in the game of cricket; IPL is not just the biggest league in the game, but is one of the biggest sporting events in the world in terms of the number of followers across the globe. ECB's relationship with the IPL, BCCI and the proactiveness of our leadership is what makes the UAE a preferred destination for global sports events. The reason the UAE is capable of hosting such a mega event is that we have excellent infrastructure, top-notch hotel properties and world-class stadia that include Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah Cricket Stadium and the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Also, our capability and experience in hosting large events, including bilateral sporting series as well as our efforts towards safety and security have put us in this position today.
Mubashshir Usmani, General Secretary of Emirates Cricket Board
UAE boasts some of the best facilities. We have three grounds, in which there are two Ovals. The ICC Academy and the Abu Dhabi facility have their own practice grounds.
The concert is set to take place on April 27
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