After finishing their 6-day compulsory quarantine in the UAE ahead of the IPL, several franchises have already begun their outdoor training. However, two franchises the Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders who are based in Abu Dhabi might have to delay their training. While all other franchises in Dubai are allowed to begin their net sessions, MI and KKR might have to stay in their room for another week.
Due to the 14-day quarantine command in Abu Dhabi, both franchises have not been able to go outside. Interestingly both Abu Dhabi and Dubai have different quarantine rules as a result MI and KKR might be spending another week in their hotel rooms.
Training Delay for KKR and MI
Meanwhile, both MI and KKR arrived in Abu Dhabi a week ago and had completed their quarantine period per as IPL’s Standard Operating Procedure. By now, they should have proceeded towards the IPL bio-secure bubble and commenced their outdoor activities. However, due to the regulations at place, the players will have to remain in hotel rooms.
“We are waiting for a go-ahead from our team manager,” said a team official from their hotel in Abu Dhabi on Thursday.
Interestingly unless exceptions are made or both teams decide to shift their base, they will not be able to start practising from September 2 or 3. On the other hand in Dubai, Rajasthan Royals and Kings XI Punjab have now begun training, the others are expected to start in the next couple of days.
Moreover, the continuous spike of the COVID-19 cases in India forced organisers to shift IPL to the UAE. The T20 league for the second time is all set to run from September 19- November 10.
This year all the matches of the league will take place in a bio-secure bubble to protect the health of all the players featuring in the league.