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XtraTime Web Desk: The rescheduling of Indian Premier League (IPL 2020) season to September –November window has created new concerns for most franchises due to sponsor pull-out. The uncertainty of the tournament coupled with the pandemic situation has led to this situation. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has zeroed in the dates of the cash rich league this year from September 26-November 08. The tournament will now take place in UAE as the situation with COVID-19 in the country is getting worse. The franchises, board officials, cricketers and all stake holders associated with the league are happy to see the cash rich league finally happening this year.

But the franchises it is learnt are in a bit of a spot with sponsor pull out. Almost all the franchises have lost one of its sponsor on their official team jersey. But a couple of franchises like Rajasthan Royals have also lost the main sponsor. The Royals had a tie-up with Dubai Expo for this season, but with the pandemic gripping the whole world the organizers decided not to hold the expo this year and as a result they have pulled out of the title sponsorship. Few other franchises like Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad is also worst hit by the sponsor pull out.

Another reason for this pull out could be the timing of the tournament. The good thing though is there is still considerable time left for the IPL 2020 to start and so the franchises can negotiate getting a substitute sponsor. One major incentive for the sponsors will be the league this season will be go on till Diwali, which will provide them with an opportunity to advertise their product.