The Men in Blue are back in cricketing action after a humiliating loss against Kane Williamson’s team in New Zealand. Kohli and Co. will be looking to get everything back on track as they host the visiting South African side at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala on 12th March.
However team India’s losing form and South Africa’s pace attack aren’t the only things, Team India has to worry about. The Indian players will also have to keep in mind their safety from the spread of the Corona Virus. More than 1,26,000 people all over the world have been infected by the Coronavirus with 62 in India and 13 cases in South Africa. The Cricket associations and the players are justifiably worried about their health because of the same.
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Players of Both the teams have been directed to follow a certain set of Do’s and Don’ts that they have to adhere to in order to maintain the safety. Personal safety being of utmost importance, it is also essential that the players look out for their teammates, opponents, and match officials.
Safety>>>>Swing
The fast bowlers have been using their saliva for decades in order to shine a single side of the ball and get it to swing. Every fast bowler licks his hands and then greases the ball with the saliva to shine and help his deliveries swing. Since every outfield player touches the ball with his bare hands while bowling or fielding, all the players are advised to stop pursuing this habit for the time being.
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Fan Engagement
Being a Cricket personality in India comes along with its reasonable share of fame and fan popularity. It is virtually impossible for players to not be surrounded by fans, spectators or media persons. The contagious nature of the virus is no secret to everyone. With no knowledge about the history of any random fan, all the cricketers need to make sure that they stay away from fans for the purpose of their own safety.
The Cricketing Hand Shakes
Shaking hands with opponents before and after every match is a tradition that has been in practice in cricket since eternity. However, given the circumstances of the current situation, not shaking hands and avoiding physical contact as much as possible is the best idea. Cricket South Africa and BCCI have mutually decided to keep away from the customary handshakes throughout the series for the same.
Medical Tests
The cricketers and staff members from both of the associations should undergo medical tests after every match. This routine has to be followed throughout their series. Also, checking up on their stay at the hotels in Dharamshala and Lucknow is extremely essential.
