Why South Africa won the rights to host IPL

New Delhi: South Africa has surprisingly turned the tables on England and has been confirmed as the host of Indian Premier League (IPL) Season 2.

Indian cricketers have very pleasant memories of playing in South Africa. In 2007, a young team led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni won the Twenty20 World Championship. Now many of them will return to South Africa, not in national colours but as part of their franchisee teams.

Among the important factors for the IPL to relocate to South Africa and not England could be the weather as there is big chance of rain playing spoilsport in England in April.

On the flip side though, temperatures could dip drastically in South Africa in May, making it very uncomfortable for the players.

Logistically, too, England could present various problems as high-ticket sporting events such as the London Marathon, the FA Cup semi-finals and final and Test matches against the West Indies are scheduled at the same time in England.

Ironically, English police have expressed concerns about providing security for the IPL.

On the other hand the South African tourism ministry and cricket board have offered full support to the IPL.

The domestic season is over so all grounds are free and with the Football World Cup scheduled next year, South Africa is keen to send the signal that it is an ideal sporting destination.

The TV rights issue may have also tilted the scales in favour of South Africa.

In the UK, host broadcaster SKY Sports may object to another big-ticket event being held in the country at the same time but Supersport of South Africa has no such problems.

Production costs, too, will be lower in South Africa as will other costs such as hotels and local help.