England suggested as stand-in host for the IPL

ENGLAND has emerged as a potential stand-in host for the Indian Premier League after escalating hostilities between India and Pakistan led to both countries suspending their T20 tournaments.

- RORY DOLLARD

Tensions in the region have risen sharply in recent days following Indian missile strikes that killed at least 26 people in disputed Kashmir last weekend.

It quickly became apparent that hosting marquee cricket matches with sizeable overseas contingents and larger security needs was never going to be viable and the plug was pulled on both the IPL and PSL on Friday. A total of 17 English players are involved across the two leagues, as well as coaches, support staff and media personnel.

A ceasefire between India and Pakistan appeared to hold overnight into Sunday, after the two nations accused each other of “violations” just hours after Saturday's deal was reached.

As it stands, the IPL is only on a one-week pause, but it is highly dubious whether it could be reactivated on that brief timescale, particularly with foreign stars already on a rapid retreat out of the country.

The PSL had originally unveiled plans to complete its season in the United Arab Emirates, but that plan lasted less than 24 hours before it was put on ice indefinitely.