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CoronaVirus Fears For South Africa’s Travel Plans
By CricShotsStaff - Mar 16, 2020 6:32 pm
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Corona Outbreak has affected the world order significantly. Claiming more than 5000+ lives, The virus has infected more than 1.60.000 people across the globe. More than 100 people in India have been affected by the same with Maharastra being the most affected state with Kerla behind.  Despite the government taking all the best possible efforts, India has recorded two deaths due to the deadly virus.

Modi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked the people to keep calm and spread unnecessary panic among others.  Modi reassures the people asserting that the government is keeping a tab on the situation. The government is taking all the necessary steps to contain the fast-spreading outbreak of CoronaVirus in the country.

With the sporting events being canceled or postponed, India Cricket board, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has postponed and rescheduled the star-studded Indian Premier League from 29 March to April 15.

IPL
IPL Trophy

The South African cricket team is touring India for a 3 match ODI series beginning on 12 March. The series is now called off because of the CoronaVirus outbreak. The first ODI in Dharamsala was abandoned due to heavy rains and both the teams later flew to Lucknow for the second ODI. The BCCI and CSA had decided to continue with the matches, ut play them behind closed doors after the Union Sports ministry advised them to avoid mass gathering and spread of the virus. Eventually, BCCI called off both the matches because of the growing coronavirus outbreak.

The South African cricket team is currently in Kolkata and is expected to be transported into a nearby hotel that’s closer to the airport. The Proteas were scheduled third to play the 3rd ODI in Kolkata on Wednesday. However, The SA team is now supposed to catch a Tuesday morning flight from Kolkata en route South Africa via Dubai.

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According to Times of India, CAB president Avishek Dalmiya said, “Authorities wanted them to stay closer to the airport, hence Westin was the best option. CAB will arrange doctors to provide support. Our office bearers will be there too. We are in touch with BCCI as well as Bengal government officials. The Bidhannagar Police Commissioner is also looking into the matter.”

Bidhannagar CP, L.N. Meena has refused to share more details on the same. She adds that there hasn’t been a final decision taken.

An official of Westin Hotels was quoted saying, “Should any such decision be taken, we are ready to host the South African cricket team. All precautionary health measures according to the Central and state directives will be taken.”

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A senior Bengal government official said that the SA team was supposed to stay at the city hotel. He is quoted saying  “However, with the match being called off, it was felt the South African team should stay in a hotel closer to the airport. Accordingly, the BCCI was informed today when we learned that the SA team is sticking to their Kolkata travel schedule. Wherever the team stays, all necessary health precautions will be taken as the Central and state said.”