IPL 2023: HPCA Stadium: PBKS vs DC – Like Rajasthan Royals (RR), Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to play their last two matches at their second home in Dharmsala. The Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) is ready to host PBKS two fixtures against DC and RR on May 17 and 19 respectively. After nine years, IPL will return to Dharmsala, but why PBKS choose this picturesque ground as their venue let’s find out. Follow Indian Premier League 2023 LIVE Updates on InsideSport.IN.
IPL 2023: HPCA pitch re-laid after a legal battle, Dharmsala fans looking forward to seeing IPL matches in full numbers
The last IPL match was played in Dharmsala in 2013, but since then, IPL matches have not been played here due legal battle over the control of Dharmsala cricket stadium between the then Congress government and HPCA. With the pitch in Dharmsala being re-laid in 2022, HPCA director Sanjay Sharma said IPL matches will promote Dharmsala as a tourist destination.
With a capacity of 25000, the HPCA director is ready for a full house during PBKS matches against DC and RR.
“We are expecting cooperation from the state government for hosting the matches. The IPL matches promote Dharamsala as a tourist destination across the world and also attract tourists to the region. The government should support sports bodies in organizing national and international cricket matches here as this will also promote tourism,” Sanjay Sharma said.
For the uninitiated, the bookings of two IPL matches has already started. Already tourists from different parts have shown interest in watching the matches in Dharmsala.
IPL 2023: PBKS stay in the hunt for playoffs, eye two big victories against DC and RR
Speaking about PBKS, the Shikhar Dhawan-led side are still in the hunt for playoffs, owing to their terrific win over DC in Delhi. PBKS are currently placed seventh in the points table, with 12 points. They will need two wins against DC and RR to qualify for playoffs.
It has been eight years since PBKS have not reached playoffs, since playing the final in IPL 2014 season. This time, PBKS would be hoping to break that streak.
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