After there were reports of the three ODIs being shifted outside Pune by the BCCI, they have now said that the game will be played behind closed doors at the same venue. The three-match ODI series between England and India will be played on March 23, 26 and 28. The games will be played behind closed doors owing to the recent spike in the number of COVID-19 cases in the state. Cricbuzz confirmed the recent development on the series.
The decision was taken following a meeting of the Maharashtra Cricket Association President Vikas Kakatkar with the Mumbai Cricket Association’s Governing Council chairman Milind Narvekar, Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and the Tourism and Environment Minister Aditya Thackeray.
Also Read: BCCI Planning To Shift The ODI Series Against England Out Of Pune
No Spectators For India-England ODI Series
“Keeping the seriousness of the current spike in Covid cases in Maharashtra, after inputs from the Honourable Chief Minister, it was decided that permission will be granted for these matches without spectators,” the Maharashtra Cricket Association stated in a release on Saturday (February 27).
The statement further said that that the state Chief Minister has requested the MCA to take all the necessary precautions for the safety and security of the players in these tough times.
“The Chief Minister requested the president of the Maharashtra Cricket Association to take all necessary precautions regarding players and other officials. With these, the uncertainty of holding the three One-Day Internationals has ended and the association can start preparatory works like obtaining various. permissions for smooth conduction of the matches” the release further stated.
Players from both teams will head to Pune after the completion of the ODI series slated to be played in Ahmedabad after the Test series. The fourth and final Test match will be played from March 4-8. The five T20Is will be played on March 12, 14, 16, 18 & 20.
A report in Sports Today claims that BCCI is planning to the 14th edition of the cash-rich league in multiple cities and the scare of coronavirus looks to ease out across the country. Earlier it was noted that BCCI might host all the games in one state while the playoffs in the newly built Motera Stadium.
However, now 4-5 cities can host IPL 2021 but the playoffs are in likelihood will take place in Ahmedabad. But if the COVID-19 cases spike across the country BCCI might return to their previous plan and host all the matches in one state.
Also Read: IPL 2021: Predicted Playing XI Of Kolkata Knight Riders