BCCI to IPL 2021 franchises: "You are playing for humanity"

India is suffering from a severe crisis, as the second wave of the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic has swept the entire nation. With daily record cases on the rise, the Indian government is doing its best to contain the spread and save the valuable life of the citizens.

Meanwhile, the Indian sports community is doing its part to give the people a sight of hope and relief. It is especially in cricket, as the Indian Premier League 2021 continues to go ahead in full flow, despite the pandemic raging in the country.

The tournament is being held behind closed doors, amidst all the precautions and safety standards to help the players secure and safeguard their lives. With strict bio-bubble measures in place, the organisers have made a foolproof arrangement so far that the competition is played without any major hiccups.

Nevertheless, despite all of it, fear has started to creep into the players, especially for the overseas ones, as a few of them have already pulled out, citing the current stern situation outside the bubble. In the meantime, the Board of Control for Cricket in India has come up with a reassurance.

BCCI has assured all the franchise and the participating members that they are safe in its latest mail. It adds that all the arrangements are being made for the safe and sound conduction of the tournament.

“I write to you at a time when India faces unprecedented challenges stretching its healthcare and spirit. While the Government of India and the state machinery is working round the clock to serve those in need, we too are doing our bit by spreading awareness on the COVID-19 guidelines and precautionary measures,” read the BCCI mail that Asianet Newsable assessed.

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“The trying times have made all of us realise that sports provides so many compelling narratives. It gives us the freedom to experience delight and disappointment in the knowledge that even in defeat the next day will see a better tomorrow,” it added.

The mail also focused on the fact that the regular testing and screening would be increased, which would now be conducted every two days. Also, it deliberated that players would be barred from consuming outside food to curtail the chances of creating a loophole for the virus to sneak into the bubble, as Newsable had earlier reported.

“In order to allay any apprehensions and concerns, we are further strengthening our bio-secure environments to keep everyone involved in the tournament safe and healthy. Recently, we increased testing in our bio-bubbles to be extra vigilant. Instead of the stipulated test every five days, we now conduct a test every two days. Further, 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 mail read.

BCCI has also affirmed the overseas players not to worry, as necessary arrangements would be made for them to return home, safe and sound. Overall, it urged the players to stay and strong and do this for humanity itself.

“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…. humanity,” the mail further read.

NOTE: Asianet News humbly requests everyone to wear masks, sanitise, maintain social distancing and get vaccinated as soon as eligible. Together we can and will break the chain #ANCares #IndiaFightsCorona

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