Mumbai Indians (MI) and Australian all-rounder Nathan Coulter-Nile opined that staying in the bio-bubble of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 is safer for him than trying and getting home. The 33-year old is yet to play his maiden game of this season as the Mumbai-based franchise has thus preferred the pace trio of Trent Boult, Adam Milne and Jasprit Bumrah.
Coulter-Nile’s remarks came after his countrymen Andrew Tye, Kane Richardson and Adam Zampa flew back home. The trio were members of Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore respectively.
“Everyone’s got their own opinions on it and different situations for them. I was surprised to see AJ go home, and then Zamps and Richo, but when you speak to them, you definitely understand where they’re coming from,” Coulter-Nile was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.
Also Read | IPL 2021: Chris Lynn asks for chartered flight to take Australian players home after the tournament
“I spoke to Zamps a little while ago and he made a very compelling argument for going home. But for me, I feel like it’s safer for me to stay in the bubble than try and get home at the moment,” he stated.
‘Just going to wait and see how things play out’: Coulter-Nile
The Aussie mentioned that the players flying back home would have to quarantine in Dubai for a couple of weeks if things get even worse.
“I feel like something’s got to give for getting home. I’m just going to wait and see how that plays out. Worst comes to worst, we’ll have to quarantine in Dubai for a couple of weeks before we can fly home. But I’m sure it will get sorted,” Coulter-Nile added.
So far, Ravi Ashwin (Delhi Capitals) and Liam Livingstone (RR) have also pulled out from the ongoing tournament due to coronavirus scares. Some recent reports suggest that SRH skipper David Warner, MI opener Chris Lynn and DC middle-order batsman Steve Smith are also planning to mid-way leave the tournament.
Also Read | IPL 2021: David Warner and Steve Smith could leave tournament and fly back to Australia – Reports
