The upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is facing a crisis as a player, a non-playing team member and multiple ground staff members at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, testing positive for Covid-19.
The Indian T20 extravagance begins on April 9, and some teams have started training for the season after players finished quarantine. Many overseas players have also joined their squads and are in quarantine. However, according to reports, Delhi Capitals allrounder Axar Patel tested positive for Covid-19 after joining the team in Mumbai. Reports suggest that Axar tested negative on March 28 but later tested positive during a second test. He is currently at a medical facility.
The Chennai Super Kings, who are also currently stationed in Mumbai, reported that a member of the content teams has tested positive for Covid-19 and is in isolation. However, reports suggest that this member was not in contact with any players or the coaching staff. Franchises are making sure players are taking all adequate precautions and staying safe.
Meanwhile, the BCCI is likely to keep few venues on standby after multiple ground staff members at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium and event management members have tested positive for coronavirus. According to reports, 10 ground staff members and six event management players have tested positive for coronavirus.
The Covid-19 situation in Maharashtra is getting worse and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has not ruled out a lockdown in the state due to surging numbers. With the Wankhede ground staff testing positive, the BCCI would be hopeful that they can conduct matches at the stadium. Mumbai is hosting ten matches in the first two weeks of the season. Reports suggest that Hyderabad and Indore stadiums are on standby in case the situation worsens in Mumbai. Currently, Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals are in Mumbai.
Reports point out that BCCI is concerned but are keeping alternatives open. The IPL will be a big test for BCCI as it will be hosting the T20I World Cup later this year in the subcontinent. India is witnessing a second wave of Covid-19 infections. Experts have indicated that people within the country must take the pandemic seriously and continue following Covid-19 guidelines.
