NEW DELHI: Players are putting pressure on cricket authorities to plan a shortened Indian Premier League later in the year to “kick-start” the sports economy after the coronavirus lockdown.
The world’s richest cricket tournament has been postponed until April 15, which coincides with the end of India’s 21-day nationwide shutdown to halt the spread of the pandemic.
But with the number of cases and deaths rising and India isolated from international travel, few believe any sport will be possible in the sub-continent for at least three months.
“Let’s say July-August is the earliest,” said Kevin Pietersen, the former England batsman. “I do truly believe the IPL should happen. I think every single player around the world is desperate to play the IPL,” he said on Saturday. Pietersen suggested the eight-team tournament be shortened from its normal eight-week duration and played behind closed doors.
Jonas Hofmann celebrates after scoring for Leverkusen. — Reuters/FileBERLIN: Bayer Leverkusen winger Jonas Hofmann...
Cameron Smith playing a shot. — AFP/FileBRISBANE: Major winner Cameron Smith and his former protege Elvis Smylie...
Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics brings the ball up court against the Washington Wizards during the second half at...
Patrick Reed of the US hits a tee shot on day one of the Hong Kong Open at Fanling golf club in Hong Kong on November...
England rugby coach Steve Borthwick. — AFP/fileLONDON: England know that even if they end a run of five straight...
US skier Mikaela Shiffrin in action. — AFP/filePARIS: Mikaela Shiffrin held her nerve to take a record-extending...
