IPL 2020: Coronavirus Scare To Make The League Matches ‘Closed-Doors’ And ‘TV Only’ This Time?
As there’s a growing fear among cricketers, fans and concerned authorities over the outbreak and spread of Coronavirus, IPL 2020 could be a closed-doors tournament, with no stadium audience to cheer on their sporting stars
As there’s a growing fear among cricketers, fans and concerned authorities over the outbreak and spread of Coronavirus, a decision on the fate of cricket’s most glorious league, the Indian Premiere League hangs by a thread. IPL 2020 could be a closed-doors tournament, with no stadium audience to cheer on their sporting stars, state latest reports. An official told AFP that in it is likely that the matches would be televised and streamed without an active audience being present at the stadia.
There is massive money at stake here; according to a report in the Times Of India, IPL moneys are to the tune of 11 Billion Dollars for the Indian economy. VIVO the sponsors have paid close to 330 Million dollars to bag the top slot for games between 2018-2022. AFP reports that a senior member of the BCCI let in that "we are keen to start the IPL on time even if it means without crowds."
The Indian government has meanwhile imposed visa restrictions on foreign nationals barring travel into the country till March 15. If there’s an extension on the date, it could impact a flurry of international talent that flies into the country for the IPL matches.
As per PTI a close source of BCCI informed about restrictions imposed by the government over the visa of these players flying from overseas for this IPL, due to the rapidly spreading virus. As quoted by the news agency, this close source said, “The foreign players who play in the IPL come under the Business Visa category. As per the government's directive, they can't come till April 15.” Also it a final call will be taken by governing council in Mumbai on March 14. “All decisions will be taken by the GC in Mumbai.”
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