Coronavirus Lockdown 4.0: BCCI issues statement on latest MHA guidelines

BCCI has given a statement after ministry of home affairs (MHA) issued new set of guidelines for lockdown 4.0. India will continue to be under a lockdown until May 31 due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic

Mumbai: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has said it will “wait further” before taking any decision on organising a skill-based training camp for its contracted players after the Union government extended the lockdown until May 31.

On Sunday (May 17), the ministry of home affairs (MHA) issued guidelines for Lockdown 4.0 starting from May 18 to 31. The MHA said sports complexes and stadia can be reopened during this period but without spectators.

In a media advisory, BCCI treasurer Arun Singh Dhumal said, “Taking into the account the restrictions on air travel and movement of people till May 31, the BCCI will wait further before organizing a skill-based training camp for its contracted players”.

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With travel restrictions still in place, there is no chance of BCCI conducting the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2020) anytime soon. Foreign players cannot travel to India in the current situation.

All cricket matches are suspended by the BCCI due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Here is the full statement from BCCI.

“The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken note of the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday for containment of COVID-19 across the country.

Taking into the account the restrictions on air travel and movement of people till May 31, the BCCI will wait further before organizing a skill-based training camp for its contracted players. The Board reiterates that the safety and well-being of its athletes and support staff is paramount and will not rush into any decision that can hamper or jeopardize India’s efforts in containing the spread of the virus. 

In the meantime, the BCCI will study guidelines at the state level and will work in sync with State Cricket Associations to chalk out a programme for skill-based training at a local level. The BCCI Office-Bearers will continue their interactions with the team management and draw up a suitable plan for the entire team once the situation further improves.”