IPL 2020: Things we will miss as fans in this season
This year’s IPL has been changed in unimaginable ways in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic as we all have grown in and shifted towards a “new normal” in these times. The BCCI has shared with the franchises a 16-page long draft document of standard operating procedures (SOPs) that lays down rigorous guidelines regarding testing procedures, maintaining bio-secure bubbles, repercussions of breaching the SOP, social distancing in dressing rooms, and a host of other such regulations. Apart from a host of changes for the players and the stakeholders involved, the theme of IPL is going to be changed for the fans too. Let’s take a look at things that will be missed by fans in this year’s IPL-
No mascots
No mascots will be present this year in order to maintain social distancing. There are not any such sights on offer this time and the mode of the toss has been changed as well. At the time of toss, electronic team sheets will be shared by the captains.
Behind closed doors
There is nothing that could replace the physical presence of the passionate fans inside a cricket stadium, however, being aware of the incredible spreading abilities of the virus, it’s only fair to let go of the idea of having spectators inside the stadiums.
Restriction on family members
The family members of the players will not have such easy access to the movement and they are not permitted to even travel on the same vehicles as members of the support staff to the venues of the training and matches.
No franchise owners for support
The franchise owners have created many memorable instances by interacting with cricket players on the field. Although this time the franchise owners would not be able to get involved in fun activities and engagements with different players like always.
No use of saliva
Given the fact the virus is transmitted through droplets, the use of saliva cannot be permitted at any cost. This restriction was brought by the ICC ever since the game resumed for the first time after a long halt and it will definitely leave an effect on this year’s IPL as well.
No celebrations
In a bid to ensure the safety and well-being of the players, it is not just handshakes but all forms of physical interactions amongst the players have been restricted. The sights of players jumping in joy after a wicket will not be visible this year.
No handshakes
There have been various recommendations to mitigate human-to-human contact as far as possible. Therefore, players won’t be seen shaking hands or hugging each other this year after the match.
No post-match presentations
The players, support staff, coaches, umpires, physios, etc. need to maintain social distancing and be in a bio-secure environment, therefore, only essential staff apart from them will be allowed. Hence, there won’t be any post-match shows, presentations, or one-on-one interviews this time.
No press conferences
Press conferences are a brilliant form of interaction between the players and the media. However, the fact that such conferences are conducted in congested rooms full of men of media, there is no chance that such an arrangement could be made. Only video conferences are likely to take place.
No dressing room gala
This year the players won’t be sharing a common dugout like all the previous editions and therefore there won’t be any dressing room stories to relish for the fans.
