The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has revealed that the Team India players have been undergoing quarterly eye tests for the last three years.

This reveal came after the Cricket Association of Bengal on Monday came out with a proposal that players will have to undergo eye tests once cricket resumes in the post-coronavirus era. A BCCI official called it a good idea on part of the CAB but said BCCI has been doing it for the last three years.

“I think it is a brilliant move on their part because cricket is, after all, a game of reflexes and hand-eye coordination. In fact, Virat and boys have been undergoing eye tests quarterly for the last three years. It is a part of the drill for contracted players,” the official said.

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“You need to ensure that the eye-sight is your strength in this game and if anyone has a problem, you can always get lenses or glasses to sort it out. At the end of the day you are facing bowlers at 140kph and above and even if you miss sight for a fraction of a second, it can cost you,” the official explained.

The Coronavirus pandemic has brought the cricket to a standstill and the action may resume with the Indian Premier League, given the uncertainty in Australia over hosting the ICC T20 World Cup 2020.  

Speaking to IANS, former Australia opener Matthew Hayden said, “The current situation in Australia is that a person is not allowed to travel in between borders, there’s very little movement of people. So, at this stage, it’s very hard to see any kind of global tournament proceeding.”

“It will be a really good sign that the world is moving forward if the global cricket tournament can go ahead. So, my fingers are crossed that it does happen. But I am sure it won’t happen if there’s any medical risk to players and spectators,” he added.

(IANS inputs)