‘Blood is on your hands’
SLATER BLAST FOR AUSSIE PM
MICHAEL SLATER has fired an emotive broadside at the Australian government, the former Test batsman accusing them of having “blood on their hands” as he tries to get home from an IPL in crisis.
And with at least two of the IPL ‘bio-bubbles’ being breached at the Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings, the tournament is hanging by a thread.
Aussie legend Slater has managed to escape from his commentary duties and reach the Maldives.
But with thousands of compatriots – including players – still there, the border remains locked to nationals trying to get home from India, where Covid-19 is ravaging the country.
“If our Government cared for the safety of Aussies they would allow us to get home,” tweeted Slater. “It’s a disgrace!!
“Blood on your hands PM. How dare you treat us like this. How about you sort out quarantine system?
“I had Government permission to work on the IPL but I now have Government neglect.
“And for those who think this is a money exercise, well, forget it.
“This is what I do for a living and I have not made a penny having left early.”
The 51-year-old’s tirade could be a sign of things to come for an IPL that yesterday suffered its first postponement.
The game between England oneday skipper Eoin Morgan’s KKR and Royal Challengers Bangalore was halted after positive cases for two players, spinner Varun Chakravarthy and seam bowler SandeepWarrier. The crisis could have an effect on returning England players and those of New Zealand and India.
New Zealand begin the Test series in England on June 2 before the Kiwis face India in the inaugural World Test Championship final in Southampton on June 18.
The UK Government may now want full quarantine by all players. The idea the IPL could remain immune to the health and humanitarian crisis unfolding on its doorstep has been utterly debunked, with reports from India that three non-playing members of CSK, who have Moeen Ali and Sam Curran in their squad, have also tested positive, as well as a member of the broadcast crew.
It all adds up to the impression this year’s event is living on borrowed time. INDIA ESCAPE: Slater cannot get back to Australia