BCCI chooses Dharamsala as an option for hosting national camp instead of Bengaluru

Since the time coronavirus broke out in India, cricket has taken a massive hit. With the country going through the fourth phase of lockdown, sporting events behind closed doors have been given a green signal from the Ministry of Sports. Considering this, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has started to think about the possible resumption of cricket.

Already, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have launched training camps in biosafety environments for players. The Indian national cricket team generally has its training camps in Bengaluru at the National Cricket Academy.

However, given the situation, there are chances that it may not take place in Bengaluru. This has created an opportunity for the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium (HPCA), in Dharamsala, as the stadium’s name has been considered for hosting the training camp.

‘Himachal is under control and it’s a safe zone’: Arun Dhumal

Arun Dhumal, the BCCI treasurer has admitted that the board is considering options if Bengaluru fails to provide a bio-safety atmosphere. This decision and step have also come after the announcement that domestic flights will resume from May 25. Dhumal is a member of the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association and has said that the arrangement for a camp can be made in Dharamsala if need be.

“Since it’s my state association, I would never, from my end, push it but if after exploring options, BCCI finds that Dharamsala can have a camp, I am more than ready to make all the arrangements. Even the hotel where the Indian team stays ‘Pavilion’ is HPCA property,” said Dhumal as quoted by Times Now.

The situation in Himachal Pradesh is quite good compared to the rest of the country. The north Indian state has so far seen only 150 cases, while the total number of cases in India has now gone past 1.3 lakhs.

“In case, the situation in Himachal is under control and it’s considered to be a safe zone as per government protocols, the HPCA will then do everything to make it a bio-secure environment. It all depends on what is the best available option,” Dhumal added.

BCCI CEO Rahul Johri has indicated that cricket in India might start after the rainy season is finished. He also said that IPL 2020 will be the first tournament to be played once that happens.