Due to the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases in India, several Australian players like Andrew Tye, Kane Richardson, and Adam Zampa withdrew from the ongoing season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
According to the latest reports, several other Aussie players like Smith and Warner are also concerned about the health crisis in India and they are wondering about how they will get back home after the completion of this IPL league. However, both cricketers are yet to give out an official statement regarding the whole matter. They could be mulling over opting out of the Indian T20 carnival because of the fear of being “locked out” of Australia.
David Warner is leading Sunrisers Hyderabad while Steve Smith is batting for Delhi Capitals. More than 40 Australians are a part of the ongoing T20 competition in India including the players, support staff, and commentators. Australian Cricketers’ Association (ACA) Chief Todd Greenberg recently spoke about the issue in a conversation with Sydney radio station 2GB.
Also, Greenberg explained how the players are probably in one of the biggest hotspots to have emerged since the COVID-19 pandemic. He assured that ACA is trying to ensure that all the involved parties are safe and secure amid the dreadful circumstances. He also mentioned that ACA is also working towards making sure that they are able to return to Australia after fulfilling their cricketing commitments.
The ACA chief also went on to suggest that the players are very anxious considering the latest developments. The association working with Cricket Australia and Australian authorities to arrange a charter flight for the players after the tournament. Greenberg highlighted the fact that the association also plans to get in touch with the IPL franchises to discuss the players’ travel arrangements.