IPL 2021: Australian cricketers & staff contemplating leaving amidst COVID-19 havoc
In what could be a body blow to the 2021 Indian Premier League (IPL), the Australian cricketers, commentators and the ones in the support staff are hoping to pull out of the tournament as the scenario in India keeps deteriorating in the COVID-19 second wave. Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa and Andrew Tye have already reached Australia after withdrawing from the league.
The likes of Pat Cummins, David Warner, and Steve Smith among 30 Aussie personnel are in India as they continue to perform their duties. In India, the novel coronavirus has led to nearly three lakh cases every day and a number of state governments have been forced to announce lockdowns.
As per reports in Channel 9, bringing back the Australian contingent through a chartered plane is an option after which the quarantine period comes into the picture. Though any concrete development is yet to be put forth, Cricket Australia (CA) hasn’t ruled out chances for the same.
Cricket Australia in touch with their IPL players
Earlier, it was learned that CA was in constant touch with the players. The board also talked about abiding by the rules and regulations of the Australian government in case the scenario in India doesn’t show any signs of improvement.
“Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers’ Association remain in regular contact with Australian players, coaches and commentators taking part in the Indian Premier League, which is being conducted under strict biosecurity protocols,” an official release mentioned.
“We will continue to listen to feedback from those on the ground in India and the advice of the Australian Government. Our thoughts are with the people of India at this difficult time,” the release added.
Previously, Nathan Coulter-Nile, who’s with the Mumbai Indians (MI), said that it’s easier for him to stay in the bio-security bubble of the IPL rather than moving back to Australia. He also respected Tye, Zampa and Richardson’s call of leaving the T20 league midway.
“Everyone’s got their own opinions on it and different situations for them. I was surprised to see AJ go home, and then Zamps and Richo, but when you speak to them, you definitely understand where they’re coming from,” Coulter-Nile said.
