IPL 2021: Several Players Refused To Take The Vaccine Before The Tournament, Claim Reports

The IPL 2021 was a subject of controversy for the BCCI as the COVID-19 virus breached through the secure bubble midway through the tournament. The rising infections forced BCCI to postpone the competition indefinitely in the first week of May and the effects of it still remain. Meanwhile, according to a report of Times of India, it has emerged that most players refused to take the vaccine before IPL 2021.

The crisis began unfolding when on Monday (3rd May), Kolkata Knight Riders’ official Twitter handle announced that Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier have tested positive for COVID-19. It forced the authorities to postpone their clash that same day against the Royal Challengers Bangalore in Ahmedabad. It also emerged that Chennai Super Kings’ contingents had also contracted the virus that is still rampantly cutting through India. On Tuesday, SunRisers Hyderabad’s Wriddhiman Saha and Delhi Capitals’ Amit Mishra also tested positive.

As per the latest developments, Kolkata Knight Riders’ Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier have recovered from the disease and returned home. Chennai Super Kings’ batting coach Michael Hussey and bowling coach Lakshmipathy Balaji has recuperated successfully too. Amit Mishra and KKR’s Tim Seifert are recovering from the infection.

As far as SunRisers Hyderabad’s Wriddhiman Saha’s case goes, he tested negative after initially testing positive and returned COVID-19 positive. Saha and KKR’s Prasidh Krishna, who also contracted the virus, have been selected for the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in England. However, the pair has to undergo three negative tests to fly with the squad to England.

Foreigners and IPL support staff were keen to take the vaccine: Times of India source

According to the Times of India, the players reportedly felt secure within the bio-bubble and did not need the vaccine before IPL 2021. With the franchises not pushing it either, things began spiralling out of control. As per reports, they were hesitant to take the jab since they had doubts about the post-fever interfering with their preparations. However, the overseas players and support staff wanted to take the jab, but it was not possible to vaccinate them.

“The players were simply reluctant about taking the vaccine when they were offered. It was not their fault, it was more about a lack of awareness. Players felt the bubble that they were in was secure enough and there was no need to take the vaccine. The franchises too, didn’t push for it. Then things started spiralling out of control. Foreigners, especially the support staff, were keen to take the vaccine. But it wasn’t possible to vaccinate them,” the source added.

Also Read: 3 Players Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) Might Retain For IPL 2022