Pat Cummins Has Good Reason To Want The IPL:
Australian pace bowler Pat Cummins is “extremely optimistic” that despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian Premier League (IPL) will start this year, even though it means matches are played in empty stadiums at first.
The launch of the Indian Premier League tournament, initially scheduled for March 29 but postponed to April 15, and another postponement seems likely as India locks down to prevent the virus from spreading.
Cummins has reasonable cause to want the IPL to move on with a $2.18 million offer from the Kolkata Knight Riders in the annual auction of the league, a record for a foreign player.
Indians Scream Every Single Ball Whether It’s A Six Or A Wicket:
Nevertheless, the year’s ICC test participant says having the league started will also be a significant example of the environment back to normal after the pandemic.
“The first goal is health, but the second is returning to normality, seeking the balance,” the 26-year-old told the BBC on Wednesday, becoming one of Wisden’s five cricketers of the year.
“If that means no fans for a moment, that’s it, but hopefully people will see it on TV at home.” Cummins said performing the IPL behind closed doors would have a “totally different feeling about it.”
“When people inquire about the disparity between cricket playing in India, the crowd is the first thing,” he said.
“They shout at every single strike, whether it’s a six or a wicket-every shot is the same noise-and the feeling is what we enjoy playing in India.
“It’ll be missed in the short term if it can’t happen, but I have a little question. It’s going to be a wonderful event even though it has to be played without spectators.”
Cummins, who last bowled a ball in anger nearly a month ago, faces a long wait for his next glimpse of international action after Australia‘s June test tour of Bangladesh was postponed due to coronavirus outbreak.
