Harbhajan Singh wouldn't mind playing the 13th edition of the IPL behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) off-spinner also reckons the annual event should go ahead only when the on-field play is safe to resume. 

The cash-rich T20 carnival was postponed by the BCCI until at least April 15 because of the deadly outbreak, which threatens to lead to further suspension of the tournament. But in times like these, public welfare must remain a priority and cricket an afterthought, said Harbhajan. 

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"Spectators are important, but if the situation arises, I don't mind playing without them. Yes, as a player I won't get the vibe, but this will ensure that every fan will get to watch IPL on their TV," PTI quoted him as saying. 

"We will have to be cautious about everything and should prioritise players' safety by ensuring that the match venues, team hotels, flights are properly sanitized. A lot of lives are on the line so we should organise IPL when everything is fine," the turbanator added. 

In this phase, as the country is on an official 21-day lockdown, Harbhajan is spending time with his family but also keeping himself physically and mentally ready for whenever the play is possible. 

"I miss matches the most, was hoping that I would get to play 17 matches (including finals) after a year's gap," he said. 

"I miss our visits to the ground, the hordes of fans waiting to greet us, the bikes that used to ride along our bus and am sure that every fan is missing this as well."

"I hope that IPL happens soon, till then I will keep myself fit."

(Inputs from PTI)