Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has on Saturday (June 13) spoken about the possibility of T20 World Cup 2020 and IPL 2020 taking place this year amid the global Coronavirus pandemic.
While the ICC is still exploring the possibilities to make the forthcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2020 happen this year as per schedule in October-November, the BCCI is also keen to stage the IPL 2020 in September-October window but they would take a decision according to India’s COVID-19 situation.
The Coronavirus cases have been increasing rapidly in India after the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions were relaxed earlier this month. As the number of COVID-19 cases crossed the 3-lakh mark in the country, Tendulkar said the future of the IPL 2020 will depend on how much discipline citizens show.
Speaking at Salaam Cricket 2020, Tendulkar, “It all depends on how much discipline we show as citizens. If we show good discipline and follow the guidelines properly then chances of it (IPL happening this year) will increase. But some people haven't followed the rules, that problem will go on. Only because some people have decided to live life differently. If the IPL does happen this year then it will be a lot of fun.”
On the fate of T20 World Cup 2020, the batting master said: “The Australian board has to decide whether they will be able to hold the T20 World Cup or not. The decision will be tough for Cricket Australia but cricket is restarting, I cannot be more happier.”
He also said limited spectators should be allowed at the stadiums. The cricket icon further added, "If the crowd is allowed inside the stadiums then there can be nothing like it. If they are not there then creating that energy inside the ground will be very difficult. When you see people in the crowd you can draw energy from them. Even if 25% of the stadium is allowed to be filled then also it will be great."
Meanwhile, international cricket is set to return after a three-month Coronavirus-forced break with England-West Indies series next month in the UK and the Indian great is excited about the series.
Tendulkar signed off by saying, “The England and West Indies are going to play Test cricket. Slowly but surely cricket is coming back on track so that is a good thing.”
(With India Today Inputs)
