IPL 2021: Ravichandran Ashwin Takes A Break To Support Family, Will Return If Situation Improves

Delhi Capitals’ (DC) off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin has taken an immediate break from the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) in order to support his family who is “putting up a fight against COVID19.” He announced this decision late night after his side’s super-over victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad, incidentally in Chennai, which is his hometown.

Ravichandran Ashwin also hinted that he is not pulling out of the entire tournament, and can be expected to return if “things go in the right direction” regarding the covid in the country. According to the protocols, if the off-spinner decides to return to the tournament, he has to undergo a week’s isolation.

I would be taking a break from this year’s IPL: Ravichandran Ashwin

Not having the services of a senior player in Ravichandran Ashwin will be a big blow to the Capitals, who are already without Shreyas Iyer. The 34-year-old didn’t have a remarkable season so far picking just a solitary wicket in 5 matches but was frugal most of the times as indicated by his economy of 7.74. Nonetheless, missing an experienced pro will always hurt any side.

“I would be taking a break from this year’s IPL from tomorrow. My family and extended family are putting up a fight against #COVID19 and I want to support them during these tough times. I expect to return to play if things go in the right direction. Thank you @DelhiCapitals,” Ravichandran Ashwin tweeted.

The Capitals, who have received a boost as Axar Patel returned to the side after a bout with the virus, registered a close victory against David Warner’s side in what was the last match of the season in Chennai as the caravan moves to Delhi and Ahmedabad. They jump to the second spot on the points table with 4 wins in 5 games.

Andrew Tye flys back home; Two more Australian players reported to leave soon

Hours before Ravichandran Ashwin’s decision to halt his IPL 2021 campaign, Rajasthan Royals announced that seamer Andrew Tye has flown back to Australia due to for personal reasons. Tye is the fourth overseas player from Rajasthan to pull out of the tournament – Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer are ruled out due to injuries, while Liam Livingstone returned to England citing “bubble fatigue”.

According to ESPNcricinfo, two more Australian players are reported to have told their franchises that they will also return home as soon as the logistics are worked out. This is partly down to the tightening of quarantine rules in Australia.

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Also Read: Delhi Capitals Bowled Fantastically In The Middle And Brought It Back: David Warner