BCCI to provide INR 10 crore assistance to Tokyo Olympics-bound athletes

The year 2020 was nothing but disappointing for sports lovers, with major series and tournaments being cancelled left, right and center due to the COVID-19 virus. However, 2020 is much better as fans have witnessed non-stop action across various sports. From US Open to UEFA Champions League and the India vs Australia Test series Down Under, many fascinating fixtures have entertained the fans. The sporting fever will remain high with many important games lined up.

Arguably the most significant tournament happening in the latter half of 2021 is Tokyo Olympics in Japan. The international multi-sport tournament was initially scheduled to take place last year, but the global pandemic forced the postponement. Now, the gala tournament will take place from July 23 to August 8. Many Indian athletes will also participate in the marquee event, aiming to earn accolades for their nation.

BCCI set to support Olympic athletes

As per the latest development, the Tokyo-bound athletes will receive financial assistance worth INR 10 crore from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The decision over the same was taken in a meeting of the Apex Council on Sunday (June 20). “The @BCCI is giving Rs 10 crore for preparation of Indian contingent for Tokyo Olympics. A decision has been taken.,” Insidesport quoted the source as per saying.

Meanwhile, BCCI is busy nowadays with no relaxation in the cricket calendar. As of now, the Indian cricket team is in England for the World Test Championship final against New Zealand and following Test series against the hosts. Moreover, in a rare incidence, fans will witness two different Indian teams playing simultaneously next month. While the Virat Kohli-led Test side would be challenging the Three Lions in the Test series, a limited-overs side, under Shikhar Dhawan’s leadership, will be in Sri Lanka for three One-Day Internationals and as many T20I games.

Furthermore, BCCI will be conducting the remaining Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 matches in the United Arab Emirates later this later. The competition will be followed by the ICC T20 World Cup 2021, which incidentally takes place in India. Hence, the Indian cricket board has some job in hand, and it would be interesting to see how these fixtures pan out.