Keeping in mind the wrath that coronavirus has created, Pakistan legend Shoaib Akhtar urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to halt their respective T20 leagues Pakistan Premier League and Indian Premier League.
The IPL started on April 9 with six cities to host the franchise-based T20 league. Pakistan’s PSL also started earlier this year. However, it got postponed after a handful of players had tested positive for coronavirus. PSL is set to resume on June 1. The remaining 16 matches will be played in Karachi. The final will be played on June 20.
Shoaib Akhtar requests BCCI to postpone IPL 2021
Shoaib Akhtar’s request came after over 300,000 fresh cases were registered in India on Sunday, April 25. About 2,500 deaths were reported on the same day. Patients were not given proper medical attention, and there was a shortage of oxygen and beds. Pakistan has also noted a sharp spike in the number of positive cases and deaths.
The legendary bowler suggested BCCI provide the money invested in the IPL to the infected people for medical facilities. Akhtar has bagged over 400 international wickets in the span of his career.
“If we are dealing with such a pandemic, then we shouldn’t have PSL’s resumption in June. This is not the right time for IPL 2021. Please give IPL’s money to the people in need, to buy oxygen tanks and save lives,” Shoaib Akhtar said in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel.
“We don’t want such a cricket, such heroes, at this time. We don’t want entertainment, we don’t want PSL or IPL and want that lives are saved in India and Pakistan. I’m saying all this with a lot of pain and disappointment. People’s lives are more important right now. If you want our show to be cancelled, so be it too,” he added.
BCCI & PCB should both rethink if this is a good time to continue the IPL or restart the PSL. Things are tough. All resources should go towards helping people in these devastating times.
Check out the complete video on https://t.co/F6Wp1VNszn#cricket #IPL2021 #psl #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/QFLAaoA7hG
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) April 25, 2021
On the other hand, former Australian wicket-keeper batter, Adam Gilchrist, had asked fans on Twitter to share their views on the IPL.
“Best wishes to all in India Flag of India Frightening Covid numbers. #IPL continues. Inappropriate? Or important distraction each night? Whatever your thoughts, prayers are with you,” Adam Gilchrist tweeted.
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