The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has shifted all knockout-stage matches of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2025–26 from Indore to Pune, citing a severe shortage of hotel rooms and suitable accommodation in Indore. The shortage reportedly stems from a large global conference scheduled to run at the same time — a conflict that left the city unable to host the demanding logistical needs of a major domestic T20 tournament.
According to internal sources, the BCCI acted after assessing multiple venue and accommodation options. Indore, which had initially been slated to host the knockout games, suddenly faced a crunch due to the influx of international delegates, staff, and delegates linked to the conference — and with hotels nearly fully booked weeks in advance. With dozens of teams, officials, support staff, and media personnel expected, the BCCI determined that continuing in Indore would risk serious logistical problems and compromise the players’ comfort and match standards.
Pune, meanwhile, was identified as a suitable alternate city. Organizers point out that Pune offers better hotel availability, improved infrastructure, and earlier agreement from local accommodations to block rooms for the teams and match officials. The move was conveyed to state associations and franchises, who have been asked to adjust travel and stay plans accordingly.
This decision — while disruptive — reflects the growing challenges faced by domestic cricket in India when major non-cricket events overlap with sporting calendars. Large conferences, conventions, and trade expos increasingly occupy hotel stock months in advance, leaving little headroom for tournament bookings. The BCCI’s decision to transfer SMAT knockout matches at short notice underscores its priority on ensuring stable, secure logistical arrangements rather than risking match quality or team welfare.
For teams participating in the knockout stage, the shift means fresh travel plans and possibly different preparation schedules. Some players and support staff expressed concern over the abrupt change, since accommodation in Pune tends to be more expensive than in Indore. Others welcomed the decision — viewing it as a way to avoid cramped hotel rooms, overbooked services, or disrupted rest before high-stakes matches.
From a broader perspective, the relocation may carry implications beyond just one tournament. If this overlap between sporting and non-sports events becomes common, the BCCI and other sports bodies may need to institute more robust scheduling rules — possibly blocking calendar windows for major cricket tournaments, or reserving hotel blocks in advance to avoid last-minute changes.
The SMAT 2025–26 will now conclude its knockout phase in Pune. Organizers are working with local authorities to re-assign match venues, confirm practice facilities, and manage logistics for teams, match officials, and broadcast crews. While the shift is significant, the BCCI has emphasized that the priority remains on delivering a clean and fair finish to India’s premier domestic T20 competition — even if it means changing venues at the 11th hour.
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