IPL 2021: “Want to make it clear that IPL has not been cancelled” – Rajeev Shukla says decision will be taken after COVID-19 situation improves

IPL 2021: “Want to make it clear that IPL has not been cancelled” – Rajeev Shukla says decision will be taken after COVID-19 situation improves

Rajeev Shukla

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2021) was suspended today after a sudden surge in the number of COVID-19 cases being reported among personnel involved in the tournament. The IPL released a statement about the decision stating that the same was taken keeping in mind the wellbeing of the players and their families. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) further said that it would do all it takes to get players to their homes.

Meanwhile, there are doubts regarding whether it would be possible to reschedule the remainder of the tournament and play it in a short time window amidst the tight international schedule over the course of the rest of the year. September is reportedly being discussed by the BCCI in order to ensure both good practice for the ICC T20 World Cup in October as well as the completion of the tournament.

Rajeev Shukla on the suspension of the IPL

IPL 2021
IPL 2021

The vice-president of BCCI, Rajeev Shukla spoke to Star Sports about the suspension of the IPL and said, “I want to make it clear that IPL 2021 has been not cancelled. It has been suspended, it has been postponed, it has been deferred, so it will happen. The remaining part of this year’s IPL will happen. But in due course, when the Covid situation improves, a decision will be taken about it.”

“Few players wanted to leave the country. They had spoken to their franchisees and the franchisees also confided with us. But not many players were willing to leave the country. But keeping that in mind, and obviously, there is a panic-like situation, if people are scared, we have to look at that aspect also and we have to take steps accordingly. So, that’s why keeping their concerns in mind, their families’ concerns in mind, we have taken this decision,” Shukla further said.

It remains to be seen as to what decision the BCCI comes up with regarding rescheduling of the IPL.

Also Read: ICC T20 World Cup 2021 set to be moved out of India after IPL 2021 suspension

Also Read: IPL 2021: BCCI look at September window to finish rest of the tournament