Fifth day of Ranji Trophy Final to be played in empty stadium

The coronavirus, officially known as COVID-19 has wreaked havoc all over the world leading to WHO (World Health Organisation) declaring it to be a global pandemic. It has led to travel curbs and cancellation of visas around the world.

The latest casualty of the deadly Corona is the Ranji Trophy final being played between Bengal and Saurashtra in Rajkot. Usually, the attendance in Indian domestic cricket remains lower than international cricket but empty stands in a coveted final still seems to be a gigantic blow for cricket.

Bengal has lifted the trophy twice whereas Saurashtra has never been able to lay their hands on the Ranji silverware. In the final, Saurashtra piled up a mammoth 435 in the first innings and after stumps on Day 4, Bengal still trail by 71 runs.

Coronavirus dampens cricket spirits

Amidst the aggravated threats of Coronavirus, the IPL and the India vs South Africa ODI series might also be played as closed-door events. This is bound to hurt revenues of broadcasters and the board but only two options seem to be viable at the moment – postponement or playing in front of empty stands.

The disease outbreak emanated from China and has now spread its tentacles to over 100 countries affecting more than a lakh people. India hasn’t yet experienced the outbreak at a massive scale having just 60 cases till date. But considering the population burden of the nation and the lax healthcare framework, the wildfire of Coronavirus is waiting on its toes to run through the population.

The players have been taking ample precautions but it may not be enough to put a halt to the virus’ spread. The Health Ministry has put out advisories exhorting people to avoid large-scale gatherings hence cricketing events stand a risk of getting affected massively. The Board and other authorities will need to take certain regulatory measures if the matches are to be held with crowds present.

The Ranji Trophy final between Bengal and Saurashtra is at a crucial juncture and awaits a mouth-watering finish. Saurashtra will be looking to ramp up their bowling to grab their first-ever Ranji title. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Bengal will go all guns blazing to deny Saurashtra of the opportunity.