Former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Gautam Gambhir believes that the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic will not affect the players’ performances in the upcoming 13^th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Amidst the Coronavirus pandemic, the IPL 2020 is set to take place between 19^th September to 10^th November in the UAE across three cities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah in the bio-secure environment and without the presence of fans in the stadium.

The former Delhi Capitals captain stressed that all players and everyone involved with the tournament must follow the stringent biosecurity protocols that have been set-up in the UAE for the tournament.

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Gambhir told ANI, “I don't think that players will be afraid of it. It is important to be in the bio-secure bubble and follow the guidelines. Just because of one person, the tournament can't be sacrificed. So, it is important to follow the instructions and guidelines.”

On the chances of Delhi Capitals winning the IPL 13, former opening batsman said that there is no certainty about anything while pointing out Indian players have not played the game for a long time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so, it would be unfair to predict anything right now.

He signed off by saying, “IPL is a kind of tournament where any team can beat another team. The most important thing is how you start the journey. Also, the Indian players haven't played any cricket for the last 6 months so whether they are rusty or not will be known once the tournament starts.”

(With ANI Inputs)