The Indian Premier League remains to be no less than a festival of cricket in the country and is one of the biggest revenue-earning platforms for the BCCI. As the new season of the cash-rich league is just around the corner, the excitement and anticipation regarding the same have been at its peak. However, the outbreak of the novel coronavirus has become a matter of huge concern. As of Monday, the total number of coronavirus infected people in India has risen to 42.
On Monday, Maharashtra Health Minister Rajesh Tope had confirmed that the discussion regarding the postponement of the IPL is on with the government. He had said:
There is always a danger of spread (of contagious diseases) when people gather in large numbers. Such events can always be organized later. So the discussion is on whether to postpone the IPL”
The ministry also released a statement regarding the same, saying: “15 people are under observation while 258 have been discharged. Not a single person has been found positive for coronavirus infection in the state, as of now.”
However, as per a report by Indian Today, the BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has now confirmed that the IPL will take place as per the schedule and also assured that all the necessary precautions will be taken before and during the tournament. He said:
“It’s on…and BCCI will take all protection (against coronavirus),I don’t know exactly what are these, it’s only the medical team which will tell us about that. The medical team is already in touch with the hospitals so that everything is available,”
Meanwhile, a senior BCCI official also confirmed that the Board will be taking all the precautionary guidelines that will be recommended by the government and will further send to everyone involved with the league. A source told ANI:
“We are monitoring the situation and will take all the precautions. We will not leave any stone unturned. Everything is in our mind. It is still time for IPL. Do not get panic. As of now, no decision has been taken,”
The source added:
“BCCI will put the additional medical team at the stadiums. Also, the spectators will be screened at the stadiums”
The 13th edition of the Indian Premier League is slated to start from 29 March and will culminate on 24 May with matches to be played in various locations across the country.
