Let IPL be behind closed doors but allow overseas players, says a franchise official

The spread of Corona Virus has sent warning bells across the globe. Several sporting events which were supposed to indulge mass gathering is now been cancelled. The fear is real but it is has been stated that there is news which will make every Indian cricket fan quite disappointed.

The Health Minister of the Indian Government has made it clear that if the 13th season of the Indian Premier League is being played as planned, then it has to be played behind close doors. From the sporting event prospective, the term behind the closed doors means that no spectators will be allowed to watch the match inside the stadium.

In this situation, only the players and match officials will be allowed to witness the sporting spectacle and be a part of it. This could well be the first instance of something like this in the most popular cricket league– IPL.

Participation of foreign players in IPL 2020 comes to the question

An official of one of the IPL franchises talked about the provisions and plannings if is finalised that the 2020 edition will be played behind the closed door. He agreed that the Government of India (GOI) has joined hands with the World Health Organization (WHO) in order to look after the outbreak of the dangerous virus and stop it’s spreading.

According to him, the step is necessary and there is no other option in this situation other than to play behind closed doors. “See, the gate money is no issue as these things are insured. As for the fans, it is disappointing, but we don’t really have much of an option as we have to abide by the diktat of the central government and even WHO has declared the outbreak a pandemic”, the official pointed out during the interview as quoted by NDTV Sports.

The spread of Coronavirus has also emerged doubts over the participation of the foreign players. Speaking on this issue, the official said– ” This makes it clear that if we have to have an IPL this year, it has to be behind closed doors. So now, would we rather want an IPL where fans can watch the games on television or we don’t want an IPL in 2020? So, we are okay with that, but the BCCI must sit down and speak to the central government to make an exception and allow the foreign players to come in before April 15 as the IPL loses its sheen otherwise”.

The idea of delaying the start of the IPL 2020 had also appeared and made rounds. But the official explained why this won’t be profitable.

“The international commitments that the players have cannot be toyed with and the host broadcasters have already made it clear that they are not too keen on doubleheaders. So, keeping the interest of all parties in place, the best option is to have an IPL behind closed doors. The franchises will have to bear the loss that comes with merchandise sales, but that is a nominal amount as compared to the losses that will be incurred if the IPL doesn’t happen in 2020,” said the official.