The Indian Premier League was officially suspended on Thursday as India extended the country’s lockdown into next month.

With health concerns and lockdown measures in place, the IPL Governing Council decided to suspend the 2020 season until further notice for the second time.

In a statement, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah said: “The health and safety of the nation and everyone involved in our great sport remains our top priority.

“The BCCI along with the franchise owners, broadcaster, sponsors and all the stakeholders acknowledge that the IPL 2020 season will only commence when it is safe and appropriate to do so.”

“BCCI will continue to monitor and review the situation regarding a potential start date in close partnership with all of its stakeholders.”

The death toll in India stands at 414 out of 12,380 confirmed cases of coronavirus. Having extended its lockdown until May 3rd, and the BCCI keeping their options open, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) have offered to host the tournament.

SLC president Shammi Silva told Reuters: “It looks like Sri Lanka will be clear of the coronavirus before India.

“If so, we can host the tournament here. We will be writing to the Indian cricket board soon.”