Breaking: Delhi Government Bans IPL Over Coronavirus Concerns

In yet another blow to the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Delhi government, on Friday, announced that it has banned all sporting activities, including the IPL attracting a large crowd turnout amidst the coronavirus outbreak. There are dark clouds over the thirteenth edition of the tournament in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

On Wednesday, the Indian government imposed visa restrictions which has put doubts over the participation of overseas players in the league. The government announced that all existing visas, except diplomatic, official, UN/international organisations, employment and project visas, will stand suspended till April 15.

Media reports suggest that the IPL teams would not be allowed to avail the services of their overseas players at least till April 15. And the Delhi government has now dealt another blow to the IPL which is scheduled to start on March 29 in Mumbai. The Delhi government has stated that it would impose the ban for at least one month.

“Sports activities, seminars, conferences, we have decided to shut them. No sports event including IPL would be allowed in Delhi until the next order. Coronavirus is spreading, we have decided to maintain social distance.  IPL is a big event, many people come from various corners, I would also like to appeal to the people,” Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi Manish Sisodia told reporters.

“If BCCI decides to play the tournament in a different format it is up to them. Our intent is just to control the gathering. We will implement this for at least a month,” he added.

The decision will be another blow for BCCI as Delhi is the home venue of franchise Delhi Capitals. The BCCI is yet to give any concrete update on the recent turn of events. A clearer picture will emerge later this week after the meeting of the IPL governing council on Saturday. According to reports, the BCCI has also invited all eight franchises for the meeting.

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