India call off their series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe due to COVID-19 threat

The sporting scenario has come to a standstill due to COVID-19 outbreak. Team India, who last braced the field against South Africa at Dharamsala, has been away from the sport for over three months now. Furthermore, the indefinite postponement of the much-awaited IPL 2020 has also kept players away from the field.

There has been an upsurge in the COVID-19 cases in the country. Considering the current scenario, the BCCI is in no rush to resume the cricketing action and put the players’ life at risk.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced that the Indian Cricket Team will not travel to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe owing to the current threat of COVID-19. Team India was originally scheduled to travel to the island nation from 24th June 2020 for three ODIs and as many T20Is and to Zimbabwe for a series comprising three ODIs starting 22nd August 2020.

BCCI is still evaluating the COVID-19 situation

Following the end of the fourth lockdown, many players had resorted to outdoor training after a long time. However, many players including skipper Virat Kohli are stuck in Mumbai where the COVID-19 situation is quite stern.

After being away from the sport for a few months, the players will have to spend ample amount in the nets before resuming international action. However, there’s no certainty whatsoever over the resumption of cricketing action in the country. As stated in an earlier press release, the BCCI will conduct a camp for its contracted players only when it is completely safe to train outdoors.

The BCCI is determined to take steps towards the resumption of international and domestic cricket, but it will not rush into any decision that will jeopardize the efforts put in by the Central and State governments and several other respective agencies in containing the spread of the coronavirus. The positive cases in the country have almost reached 3 lakh and the number is climbing with every passing day.

The Office-Bearers have been taking note of advisories issued by the Government of India and the Board is committed to fully comply with the restrictions imposed and guidelines issued. The BCCI will continue to study and evaluate the changing situation before making any announcement.