The BCCI has postponed the start of this year’s IPL season till April 15 as a precautionary measure due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The tournament was initially set to begin on March 29. A statement from the BCCI on Friday announced the decision to “suspend” the tournament until the later date.

“The BCCI is concerned and sensitive about all its stakeholders, and public health in general, and it is taking all necessary steps to ensure that, all people related to IPL including fans have a safe cricketing experience,” read a statement from the body.

“The BCCI will work closely with the Government of India along with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and all other relevant Central and State Government departments in this regard.”

The news follows on from Thursday’s announcement that the remainder of India’s ongoing home ODI series with South Africa will be played behind closed doors. The two remaining ODIs will be played on March 15 and March 18.