The 13th edition of IPL is expected to kick start with a match between the Chennai Super Kings and the Mumbai Indians on March 29 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Meanwhile, the novel coronavirus, which has been spreading rapidly across the world, has raised concern over the conduction of the IPL matches as public gatherings are not advised in the prevailing situation.

IPL Governing Council chairman Brijesh Patel has clarified that the coronavirus threat shall not affect the IPL, although authorities are keeping tabs on the situation. BCCI president Sourav Ganguly ruled out any possible threats as well and has mentioned that they have not discussed anything yet. He further added that upcoming series between the Virat Kohli-led side and visitors South Africa will be contested in India as planned. "There is no threat as of now and we are keeping a tab (on the situation)," Brijesh Patel reportedly said, while Ganguly mentioned, "Nothing in India. Not even discussed it (Coronavirus)."

Further updates and an official confirmation from the BCCI is awaited based on the progress of the situation in the coming days.