In a shocking development for the fans of the Indian cricket league, this year’s IPL season now stands postponed, according to the Indian cricket board (BCCI). This was announced in view of the increasing number of players testing positive for covid-19.
While some of the cricketers were found infected on Monday, two more tested positive on Tuesday, attracting today’s decision.
The sports association released a statement today saying, “The Indian Premier League Governing Council (IPL GC) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in an emergency meeting have unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 season, with immediate effect.”
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“The BCCI does not want to compromise on the safety of the players, support staff, and the other participants involved in organizing the IPL. This decision was taken keeping the safety, health, and wellbeing of all the stakeholders in mind,” the BCCI added.
Following the positive test emergence of Wriddhiman Saha of Sunrisers Hyderabad in Delhi and Amit Mishra of Delhi Capitals in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, the board said that all the players will now be sent back to their homes and the league remains postponed.
The new cases surfaced after Monday’s reports showed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) bowling coach Laxmipathy Balaji and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bowlers Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier positive for the virus that is taking India by storm with each passing day. Along with the players, the ground staff and a travel team support member of CSK were also found infected at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
This sudden news sent KKR, CSK and DC into isolation within the IPL bio-bubble to protect the other teams. Nevertheless, the cases that emerged yet again on Tuesday forced the league to come to an abrupt end.
“These are difficult times, especially in India and while we have tried to bring in some positivity and cheer, however, it is imperative that the tournament is now suspended and everyone goes back to their families and loved ones in these trying times,” the statement said while adding, “The BCCI will do everything in its powers to arrange for the secure and safe passage of all the participants in IPL 2021.”
“The BCCI would like to thank all the healthcare workers, state associations, players, support staff, franchisees, sponsors, partners, and all the service providers who have tried their best to organize IPL 2021 even in these extremely difficult times.”
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From the 56 matches scheduled for this year, 29 were played till now with the most recent one on May 2nd between Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings. KKR and RCB were due to play against each other on Monday but got postponed after positive cases emerged in the Kolkata team.
