The last two ODIs of the three-match series between India and South Africa will be played in empty stadiums due to the ongoing situation surrounding the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Thursday.
The sports ministry had advised that in case it’s unavoidable to postpone a bilateral series, then it is preferable that it be conducted without a large public gathering.
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The guidance from the sports ministry read: “The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been working closely with the Government of India along with Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) in the wake of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.”
On Thursday, the BCCI had discussions with the MYAS and MOHFW and made an announcement that the remaining two ODIs of the three-match series of South Africa tour of India, 2020, will be played without any public gathering, including spectators.
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Describing the same, the sports ministry guidance read: “The World Health Organisation (WHO), on Wednesday, assessed that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic. The BCCI is making every effort for compliance with the regulatory bodies of the Government of India and ensure the safety of our athletes and valued fans. The BCCI will continue to take guidance from the Government of India and state regulatory bodies.”
There are many confusions amongst the athletes at this moment. Two Advisories are issued by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports for matches abroad and the domestic. There's no restrictions on playing but guidelines to be followed strictly in the larger interest of health. pic.twitter.com/RoohGcsOma
— Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) March 12, 2020
The government had already advised the BCCI against conducting the Indian Premier League (IPL), leaving the decision to the organisers without imposing a ban. The second ODI is scheduled for March 15 (Lucknow) and the third and final game will be played in Kolkata on March 18. The first match of the series at the HPCA in Dharamsala was washed-out on Thursday.
