NEW DELHI, (DNA) – 2009 Indian Premier League hosting nation South Africa will once again be seen hosting another IPL season as BCCI is all set to take premium t20 league away from India.

A senior BCCI official told on Wednesday afternoon that Africa is prime choice for hosting Indian Premier League 2019 season.

“South Africa is the best choice for hosting upcoming IPL. Some of our officials associate with the government, have come to know that full tournament can’t be organized in the country due to elections.

And it will be time taking to host the event in two parts due to world cup is near,” senior BCCI official told.

The official also mentioned that BCCI would make final decision by next week so that everyone gets enough time to make preparations for the 12th edition of Vivo Indian Premier League. Cricket South Africa (CSA) also require time to make preparations for the tournament starting in mid March.

“We are working with our colleagues to make final decision by next week. IPL season-12 to kick off in the mid of March, hence we need to finalize things by the end of January. CSA board will require time as well to make arrangements for hosting the tournament.”

The dates of tournament is set to be clashed with General elections in India, hence it will be difficult for police and local authorities to provide security. Elections to take place in April-May and this is the period when IPL occurs every year. Hence shifting cash-rich league from India would be the best choice.

On asking if BCCI considering other venues, source said that it would not be easy for any other country to host full IPL season. Also match start timing matters to get good viewership for broadcasters.

“UAE was in frame but for 60 games event, it will not be easy for Arab country to host the competition. Viewership is a concerned area as well and we can’t drop that by taking competition in a bad time zone that doesn’t suit India,” he said.

South Africa hosted 2009 IPL successfully and they will be aiming to host much better tournament this year.