IPL 2021: Wankhede Groundstaff Test Covid Positive; Franchises Tighten Checks

Seven days are left for the high-octane Indian Premier League clash between Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals at the Wankhede Stadium. But as per the latest reports, the ground staff at Wankhede Stadium has tested positive for COVID-19. The number of people who have tested positive, however, is not known. Reportedly the franchises have now tightened the testing after the groundstaff was infected with the virus.

As reported by sources to ANI, “You do get a little concerned when you hear such things days before the start of the tournament. We have all been following protocols to the core, but obviously, when such news comes in, it makes us a little wary. We are looking at keeping things as tight as possible. Have to be on our guard.

Sources added, “This could actually serve as a wake-up call before the start of the tournament. Sometimes we tend to get a little comfortable after going inside the bubble. But this will ensure we follow every protocol and there is no messing up.”

Wankhede is set to host 10 IPL games this season from April 10-25. The first match at the Mumbai stadium is slated to be played on April 10 between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings. At present, Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals have set up their base in Mumbai.

With the surge in COVID-19 cases in Maharashtra, IPL franchises are wary as the 14th edition of the league set to get underway from April 9.

Maharashtra on Friday recorded 47,827 new COVID-19 cases. This took the state’s caseload to 29,04,076. There are 3,89,832 active cases in the state.

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