IPL 2019 to kick off from March 23

The IPL venue for 2019 session had been the subject of speculation given that the dates clash with the general elections, which are expected to take place in April-May. But finally, the controversy and speculation have ended.

On Tuesday, BCCI clarified that the 12 edition of the IPL will take place entirely in India and the league to start on March 23.

BCCI said that the date and venue had been decided on by the Committee of Administrators after discussions with federal and state officials.

The full IPL schedule will be out in early February.

In addition to the home bases of the eight franchises, around four to six additional grounds including Guwahati's Barsapara stadium have been shortlisted as back-up. Once the Election Commission of India (ECI) announces the final dates for the polls, the IPL will consider if any of these venues would need changing.

Although the IPL authority has not announced the date for the final match, it is likely to be between May 12 and 15.