Does IPL 2021 make sense amid India's recent COVID surge? Adam Gilchrist wonders
The Indian Premier League 2021 is the 14th edition of the fruitful Twenty20 tournament. The tournament is currently being held in India amidst the ongoing second COVID wave in the country. However, it is all being done behind closed doors and strict bio-bubble measures.
India is currently going through a brutal second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Around 3,50,000 new cases have been recorded until Saturday, while the recovery rate has been average.
Meanwhile, cricket continues to happen in the country, as the 2021 Indian Premier League is being conducted in full flow. However, it is all being done in a controlled environment, behind closed doors and strict bio-bubble measures in place for the ones involved.
Nevertheless, despite the tournament being held successfully, it has not impressed a few, judging by the current situation. Former Australian wicketkeeper-opening batsman Adam Gilchrist wondered the same as he tweeted, "Best wishes to all in India Frightening Covid numbers. #IPL continues. Inappropriate? Or important distraction each night? Whatever your thoughts, prayers are with you."
Gilchrist's tweet generated quite a few reactions from some, with this user suggesting that it is an excellent way to make people stay at home.
As for this user, he feels that hosting cricket and IPL successfully amidst the pandemic an inspiration.
Meanwhile, this user has applauded the bold stance of the organisers and the players to keep viewers engaged and inspire positivity.
Amidst all of it, five players (Ravichandran Ashwin, Liam Livingstone, Andrew Tye, Adam Zampa and Kane Richardson) have taken a break from the IPL mid-way, owing to stress-related issues surrounding the pandemic and bubble life. A few players had already pulled out before the season underway for the same reason.
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