The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Tuesday that the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 has been postponed after several players tested positive for COVID-19. “In an emergency meeting, the Indian Premier League Governing Council (IPL GC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unanimously agreed to postpone the IPL 2021 season, with immediate effect,” the BCCI said in a statement. “The BCCI does not want to jeopardise the welfare of the players, support personnel, and other people interested with the IPL’s organisation. This decision was made with all stakeholders’ security, welfare, and well-being in mind.”
The virus has been detected in two Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) teams, Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier, as well as a Chennai Super Kings bowling coach, Lakshmipathy Balaji, and a CSK travel team support staff member. The CSK team was put in isolation as per IPL protocol.
UPDATE: The Indian Premier League Governing Council (IPL GC) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in an emergency meeting has unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 season with immediate effect.
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 4, 2021
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“These are hard times, particularly in India, and while we have tried to introduce some positivity and cheer, it is critical that the tournament is now suspended and everyone returns to their families and loved ones,” the BCCI said in a statement.
“The BCCI will do whatever possible to ensure the safe and stable passage of all IPL 2021 participants.”
“The BCCI wishes to express its gratitude to all healthcare professionals, state associations, players, support personnel, franchises, supporters, investors, and all service providers who have worked tirelessly to make IPL 2021 a success, despite the challenging circumstances.”