SMAT Knockouts Relocated: Pune Takes Over from Indore

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to shift the knockout matches of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy from Indore to Pune due to logistical complications.

The Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) had informed the BCCI two weeks ago about their inability to host the tournament because of a shortage of hotel rooms for the teams.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed to Sportstar on Friday that the knockout stage will now take place in Pune. The matches will be held at two venues: the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Gahunje and the Dr DY Patil Academy ground in Ambi, located on the outskirts of Pune.

“Indore is hosting a global doctors’ conference around that time, resulting in a complete shortage of hotel rooms from December 13 to 18. Therefore, we informed the BCCI that hosting the tournament would not be possible,” MPCA CEO Rohit Pandit shared with this publication.

The tournament boasts participation from some of the top players in the country, with the possibility that former India captain Rohit Sharma might play for Mumbai in the SMAT knockouts.

While the BCCI operations team has already arranged hotels in Pune for the teams, the ongoing crisis with Indigo flights could also pose challenges, as many teams rely on this budget airline for travel. “We are closely monitoring the situation and exploring alternatives to ensure players and match officials reach the venues without issues,” stated a BCCI source.

In the past few days, the airline has already canceled over 1,000 domestic flights, and its operations have been significantly disrupted.

Published on Dec 05, 2025.