This year's edition of the Indian Premier League will likely be subjected to another delay on Tuesday.
The start of the 2020 IPL was moved from 29 March to 15 April as a preventative measure against the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, however, will almost definitely extend travel bans and other strict precautionary measures this week.
“Right now, the picture is very hazy. We don't even know when the lockdown will end and if we don't know, how can we even have a meaningful discussion,” Board of Control for Cricket in India treasurer Arun Dhumal was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India.
“Once we get a clarity from the government, we can then sit and take fresh stock of the situation. Any speculation about its future will be premature.”
Kevin Pietersen' suggestion
Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen, meanwhile, has suggested this year's IPL go ahead without spectators. Pietersen captained the Delhi Daredevils and Royal Challengers Bangalore.
“Let's say July or August is the earliest, I do truly believe the IPL should happen,” Pietersen said on Star Sports Cricket Connected.
“I do believe it is the kick-start to the cricket season. I think every single player around the world is desperate to play the IPL. There could be a way in which to get some money into the franchises, into the economy by having a situation where you use maybe three venues which are completely closed to fans and the players can still go out and play the tournament in three weeks or in four weeks.
“So it's a more condensed tournament in three venues, which we know are safe, which we know are secure. I don't think the fans need to be risked in this situation. I think the fans need to understand they can't watch a live game at the moment and they might not be able to watch a live game for the foreseeable future. But what would you guys give right now, to watch Mumbai Indians versus Chennai Super Kings right now?”
Mumbai are the reigning champions. They beat Chennai in last year's final. Mumbai have four IPL titles. Chennai have three.
