Even as massive preparations have been underway to organize Indian Premiere League (IPL 13) in United Arab Emirates amid threat of pandemic , the star studded CSK team became first casualty forcing one group of players and team staff in isolation few days after its arrival. Star player Suresh Raina made an unprecedented exit citing ‘ personal reasons’ and has since returned to India. Hopefully with teams reaching early , players should get ready to play their first match as we are nearly a fortnight away from the tournament to begin.
‘Where there’s a will, there’s a way’ a proverb that fits Indian Premiere League for its past commitment to organize tournaments despite hurdles. The IPL 13 was rescheduled to UAE due to the pandemic. The million-dollar league known for its glitz, appeal, and entertaining fast cricket is soon to start in September. IPL glued viewers to the screen and heightened the cricket fever. Does the engagement remain the same amid pandemic concerns is yet to be seen.
IPL , we will recall , had been rescheduled to South Africa due to General Elections. This year’s tournament is different from all other seasons. BCCI waited months for the government approval and to frame new rules. There will be no cheers and hooting of fans in the stadium. UAE board is eager to fill 30-50 percent occupancy. There has been a reduction in the number of players and staff in each squad. Fielding positioning will also see major changes. Umpires with PPE kit and use of sanitizer can be used for safety purposes.
Critics slammed BCCI for arranging tournaments during the pandemic. Sunil Gavaskar replied, “There are so many people whose livelihoods are there because of the IPL.” The presence of four foreign players on each side and the long scheduled of event rise the risk of contact. What if any player tested positive during the game? BCCI has constructed a ‘bio-bubble’ for the safety of players. If any symptoms found they will be isolated and contact-tracing will start immediately. However, every player must undergo cardiac screening before resuming training.
IPL is a door for many new players to an international cricket. The players’ auction and tournament prize money betting millions.
The withdrawal of Chinese sponsors was another setback for BCCI and franchises. IPL 2020 Central Sponsorship values are currently down by 40%. The departure of Vivo hurt both the BCCI and its franchises. The Chinese company has suspended its contract this year amid the ongoing Indo-China dispute. Vivo was paying Rs 439.80 crore annually to BCCI from the last five seasons. Now, ‘Dream 11’ has been named title sponsor with a bid of 222 crores. BCCI is looking positive to start the game regardless of financial compromises and pandemic concerns.
It’s really difficult for an athlete to be lockdown. They are full in spirit to play again on the field. Most players are already departed. Star India has been named official broadcaster at the last moment. Broadcasters are expecting unprecedented viewership in the festive season. The muted and low key festive times give TV a boost in ad revenues. The emergence of OTT pushed the broadcaster for paid Live streaming on Disney+Hotstar Premium.
For the past 12 years, every other form of entertainment took a break to accommodate the nation’s obsession with the game. CSK led by M S Dhoni will play his first league match after their international retirement. Kohli, Rohit, and many Indies, Aussie players will set the fire. Cheerleaders who added more color will take additional responsibility for players’ safety. Commentators can take charge from WFH. Sixes, Fours andsocially distanced fans IPL 2020 will certainly see changes due to pandemic.
What do you think about the organizing of IPL during the Pandemic? Whom you’re supporting? And who is your star player?
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Written by Nitin Kumar
