IPL BEHIND CLOSED DOORS?

It was only a couple of days back when Bundesliga (German football league) marked its return with eight games being played behind locked doors. More than six million tuned in to watch the first league match in two months — doubling the past numbers. The same evening, MHA guidelines stated that sports complexes and stadia will be permitted to open without spectators. Social media posts citing IPL to be played behind closed doors went viral. Not a bad idea! Comes April-may, millions are used to 40-50 days of IPL matches on the trot. Under lockdown, it could help in entertaining the masses, but is that the need of the hour? Many cricketers too have agreed with the idea of closed-door games, but do we want the Kohlis or Dhonis drawing the already limited resources we have at this time of crisis?

Sports Minister, Kiren Rijiju, in his recent interactions with athletes and administrators across sports, indicated the ministry’s attempts at the phased resumption of training, at least for Olympics-bound athletes, by month-end. Return of competitive sport in India any time soon is unlikely, but this relaxation will now help many athletes stuck in hostel rooms of Sports Authority of India resume their practice — particularly those of non-contact sports. The MHA also says “all social/political/ sports/entertainment/academic/cultural/religious functions/ other gatherings and large congregations” are still prohibited, thereby casting doubt on the resumption of competitive sport. The restrictions, however, mean only training facilities are likely to begin at the moment. There is also uncertainty on the complexes that can be opened up since a lot of them also belong to various state governments. This would allow non-contact sports to start training almost immediately, those with full or partial contact would be looking for further clarity before resuming full training. IPL is not on the cards, but who knows! Though a cricket fanatic, I am glad that athletics won the day.

..... ARIF, DELHI via email