Australia has suspended all direct passenger flights from India due to the rise in COVID-19 cases. It has alarmed the Australian players who are in India for the ongoing IPL 2021.
But Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Ricky Ponting said it's a 'small issue' when compared to the situation outside because of the COVID-19 second wave.
"There have been revelations that our government has made as far as Australians in India returning to Australia. No doubt there have been few distractions, but the travel side for us and Australians who are here is only a small issue," Ponting said in a virtual press conference after his side lost to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by one run.
"On daily basis, we are thinking about what's happening outside and we understand how blessed we are to be doing what we are doing. Hopefully, there are a number of people in India who got enjoyment by watching IPL cricket."
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Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison made it clear that the cricketers will have to make their own arrangements to return home as they are not on national duty.
Three Aussie cricketers have already pulled out of the tournament because of the current situation. Chris Lynn has requested Cricket Australia to arrange a chartered flight to take them home after the event is over.
The BCCI has already assured foreign players of necessary arrangements once the tournament ends.
"It is a really strange feeling amongst our team right now. We are very aware of what's happening outside and in India at the moment. Obviously, our hearts go out to every single person that's struggling with Covid-19 in the Indian society," Ponting said.
"We have had our one player leave as well, Ravichandran Ashwin left to be with his family so that is affecting, we are talking about it more than most teams are."
Delhi Capitals are currently at number 3 in the points table with 4 wins in 6 matches. They lost to RCB by 1 run on Tuesday (April 27) and Ponting said the team is disappointed.
"Our last game went to a Super Over and against RCB, we lost by one run. That can only hold you in good stead when the bigger comes at the backend. We have got three games in four days, we have to take our learnings.
"The team is disappointed but also proud how boys fought. We will not overanalyse."
(With PTI Inputs)
