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XtraTime Web Desk: Is Rohit Sharma led Mumbai Indians going to face Virat Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore in the upcoming 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2020)? Well as per reports it looks to be a possibility as the COVID-19 positive cases in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp has jeopardized the entire planning of BCCI. It is also the reason that the Board is yet to finalise the IPL 2020 schedule.

According to a report in TOI, Mumbai Indians (MI) were set to play CSK in the inaugural game of the tournament but it may not be possible now. Instead, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are likely to play the curtain-raiser match against the defending champions.

The reason for this move, according to the same report, is the need of star players in the opening game.

“It could possibly be Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) because in the first match, you’ll need star players on the field. If MS Dhoni is missing, then it has to be Virat Kohli. While it’s not certain yet if CSK will or will not play the opening game, the governing council has to remain prepared for a switch,” according to the report.

As many as13 CSK members (including two cricketers) have contracted COVID-19 after tests were carried out between August 20 - 28.

The The 13th edition of Indian Premier League will be played in UAE from September 19 to November 10. The 53 day cash rich league will be held behind closed doors across three venues – Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.