New Delhi: The BCCI said Tuesday it would do everything to ensure that foreign players competing in the IPL reach their respective countries seamlessely once the tournament ends. The BCCI announcement came a day after three Australians quit the event amid an upsurge of COVID-19 cases in India. Andrew Tye (Rajasthan Royals) and the duo of Kane Richardson and Adam Zampa (both Royal Challengers Bangalore) withdrew and flew back Monday to Australia.
“We understand that many of you are apprehensive about how you will get back home once the tournament concludes. We want to apprise you that you have nothing to worry about,” BCCI COO Hemang Amin said in a letter addressed to the players. The letter has been sent to all the respective franchises.
“The BCCI will do everything to ensure that you reach your respective destinations seamlessely. The BCCI is monitoring the situation very closely. It is working with the government authorities to make arrangements to get you home once the tournament concludes. Be rest assured that the tournament is not over for BCCI till each one of you has reached your home, safe and sound,” the letter stated.
Australia suspended Tuesday all direct passenger flights from India with immediate effect until May 15 due to the ‘very significant’ spike in COVID-19 cases.
Kolkata Knight Riders mentor David Hussey acknowledged that Australians in the IPL are a ‘bit nervous’ about getting back home in the wake of the situation here.
Amin however, lauded the players for carrying on. “As some of you have said, ‘if we can help distract people from all the troubles of recent times, even if it is for a short while, we have done a great job’. When you all walk out onto the field, you are bringing hope to millions of people who have tuned in. If, even for a minute, you can bring a smile on someone’s face, then you have done well. While you are professionals and will play to win, this time you are also playing for something much more important,” he wrote.
Also read: Australian cricketers in IPL will have to make own arrangements for return: Scott Morrison
The letter also stated that the teams will no longer be allowed to order food from outside.
“…Earlier in the tournament, we had permitted food deliveries from outside your designated hotels, but these privileges have also been withdrawn. Apart from this, we have also increased our level of caution to strengthen our bio-bubbles,” the letter said. “I am sure you will understand and co-operate with us on these steps taken to strengthen the bubble,” Amin added.
Several England and New Zealand players are also competing in the event but haven’t yet spoken about their concerns. The IPL final is scheduled to be held on May 30 in Ahmedabad.
A total of 14 Australian players remain in the event, including stars such as Steve Smith (DC), David Warner (SRH) and Pat Cummins (KKR). In the support staff there are Ricky Ponting and Simon Katich, head coaches of DC and RCB respectively.
Commentators Matthew Hayden, Brett Lee, Michael Slater and Lisa Sthalekar are also among the Australians involved with the league right now.