IPL 2021: Ricky Ponting opens up on the ‘strange feeling’ in the Delhi Capitals’ camp amidst the COVID-19 pandemic

Ricky Ponting, the Delhi Capitals’ head coach, said that the team has had a ‘strange feeling’ amidst the chaos in the COVID-19 pandemic in India. In the last couple of weeks or so, the second wave of the deadly virus has gotten the Asian country in its stranglehold. On a daily basis, around three lakh cases are being recorded and people have found it tough to get hospital beds and oxygen supplies.

As far as the Capitals are concerned, having won four out of their first six matches, Rishabh Pant and Co are placed third in the points table. Amidst action on the field of play, Ponting also expressed concerns over the deteriorating conditions in India. The veteran put forth his opinions after DC’s one-run loss against Royal Challengers Bangalore on Tuesday at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

We understand how blessed we are: Ricky Ponting

“It’s a really strange feeling amongst our team right now. We are very aware of what’s happening outside and through India at the moment. Obviously, our hearts go out to every single person in India that’s struggling with what’s happening with COVID in the society,” Ponting said.

Earlier, the Capitals were jolted with a blow after their premier spinner Ravi Ashwin left the IPL midway to take care of his family. “Ravi Ashwin left to be with his family. So maybe, it’s probably affecting us and we are talking about it more than maybe, most teams are,” he stated.

Despite the hassles, Ponting expressed his gratitude for being able to play the game. He also understands the importance of the IPL games as a source of joy and jubilation for the people of India in dreary circumstances all around.

“There is no doubt that there have been few distractions on the way. But we understand how blessed we are to turn up and do what we did tonight. Hopefully, there are a number of people around India who got some enjoyment out of watching a great game of IPL tonight,” Ponting added.

The Capitals are next scheduled to lock horns with the Kolkata Knight Riders, captained by England’s Eoin Morgan, on Thursday, April 29 in Ahmedabad itself.