The Indian Premier League (IPL) was scheduled to begin from March 29, but due to Coronavirus outbreak followed by global lockdown, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was forced to postpone the 13th edition for an indefinite time. However, fans are still hopeful that IPL may take place around July this year, but the rapid growing COVID-19 cases in the country may block even that possibility.
Meanwhile, Indian speedster Mohammed Shami has dropped his thoughts regarding the future of the cash-rich league. While talking in a chat show ‘Sports Tak’, Shami expressed that he doesn’t see the IPL 2020 happening this year.
“I was speaking to Irfan Bhai as well on the possibilities of Indian Premier League. I don’t think there is time for IPL this year. Our T20I World Cup may also get pushed. Everything has come to a stop. We have to reschedule everything. We have to see where to place everything accordingly. Hence, I don’t feel the IPL will be possible,” said Shami.
Shami opined that the future of the global T20 league depends on the grounds of the lockdown period. He said that if lockdown ends early then IPL 2020 can be held later in the year. The right-armer stated that it would be nice if the lucrative league takes place as it will help players to prepare for the T20 World Cup which is scheduled to kick-off later this year in Australia.
“We have to wait and see how long our lockdown lasts. If our lockdown gets over early, then we may see IPL happen this year – even though later in the year. It will be great if IPL happens before the T20 World Cup, as the players can get used to the format, and also get back to their rhythm,” added Shami.
The 29-year-old further said that players would need at least a month to get back into the rhythm and flow.
“The sports person’s body needs to get used to the scenario. Every player needs time to get the groove and rhythm back. Players need at least a month to get back into shape. Ninety-five per cent of my sports stars are stuck inside their house. They cannot do many activities. So, they need time to get back on the field,” the Amroha-born added further.
Shami was supposed to join Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) for the 13th season of IPL, but it got postponed. The Indian seamer has so far played 49 games in the lucrative league and has taken 40 wickets with 3/29 being his best.
