Irfan Pathan Weighs In On The Prospects Of IPL Behind Closed Doors

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has opened up on the possibility of the Indian Premier League (IPL) taking place behind closed doors. While some of the cricketing nations have managed to contain the novel coronavirus, it still doesn’t guarantee the safety of spectators if allowed within the stadium. Hence, the only way to stage cricket matches is prohibiting the public from being seated in the stadium.

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The Syndey Cricket Ground was the last international match to take place, which also held behind closed doors. Australia and New Zealand squared off against each other in which the hosts emerged victorious. There were instances from both the sides of the players bringing the ball from the stands themselves when it went for a six. It signalled what matches during the pandemic bereft of spectators would look like.

As far as Irfan Pathan is concerned, he hilariously terms cricket matches without spectators is like marriage taking place devoid of guests. The Indian Premier League (IPL) was postponed twice before calling it off indefinitely. The initial starting date was the 29th of March; however, the rapidly increasing cases of COVID-19 forced the BCCI to defer it.

“Barati ke bina shaadi adhuri lagti hai (a marriage is incomplete without guests), so we will have the same feeling (IPL without fans) as well.” Pathan told Times of India in an interview.

Irfan Pathan adds a lighter note to the above statement:

Continuing the same, the 35-year old added a more radiant statement by saying that even without guests, marriages do take place and that some opt for court marriage.

“But barati ke bina bhi shaadi hoti hai. Kai log court me jaake bhi shaadi karte hain, eventually shaadi hoti hai (but marriages do happen without guests, some opt for court marriage. Eventually, marriages do happen).” the Baroda cricketer added.

As far as conducting IPL goes, countries like UAE and Sri Lanka have offered to host the tournament.

However, BCCI is yet to take the final call. International cricket is also slated to return the next month as West Indies squares off England in three Test matches, set to host by Southampton and Manchester.

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