Gautam Gambhir Reckons Players Performances Will Not Be Affected In IPL 2020 Due To Covid Cases

Gautam Gambhir, former Indian opener-turned commentator, feels that the global contagion that is the coronavirus [Covid-19] will not affect the performances of players in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League.

The 13th edition of the IPL will take place in the bio-secure environment of the United Arab Emirates between September 19-November 10. The tournament will be played across three venues in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah, and it will take play without the presence of fans in the stadium.

Stringest bio-security protocols have been set-up for all players and everyone involved with the tournament to follow, something Gambhir also stressed during his interaction with ANI.

I don’t think that players will be afraid of it. It is important to be in the bio-secure bubble and follow the guidelines. Just because of one person, the tournament can’t be sacrificed. So, it is important to follow the instructions and guidelines,” Gautam Gambhir told ANI.

“IPL is a kind of tournament where any team can beat another team”- Gautam Gambhir

Gautam Gambhir was also asked about the chances of his former IPL franchise Delhi Capitals. The Shreyas Iyer-led Capitals had a great season last year as they qualified for the playoffs after 7 years, but the former captain thinks it is difficult to predict this time around as the Indian players haven’t played for the last six months.

“IPL is a kind of tournament where any team can beat another team. The most important thing is how you start the journey. Also, the Indian players haven’t played any cricket for the last 6 months so whether they are rusty or not will be known once the tournament starts,” he said.

Gambhir was also asked about his views on Yuvraj Singh coming out of retirement and play for his state Punjab in the domestic T20 tournament. To which, the southpaw said-

”It’s his personal decision and each and everyone loves seeing Yuvi play. If he wants to play for Punjab so why not? You can’t force a cricketer to start or to end and if he wants to come back from retirement and play with motivation, he is most welcome,” he added.

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