The 20-member Indian team has arrived in Sri Lanka and is presently undergoing a three-day quarantine at the Taj Samudra hotel in Colombo. This time, the players, support staff, and coaches were not greeted with a garland upon arrival. Given the country’s present epidemic condition, this news should come as no surprise. Team India at Colombo hotel.

India vs Sri Lanka: No garland welcome for Team India at Colombo hotel. Here’s why

Cricket hasn’t been the same in the last two years owing to the COVID-19 virus. There are a lot more limitations these days, and even fans can’t see their favourite cricketers when they arrive. The garland welcome looked a long way off now that only security staff and the manager are permitted near the players.

Starting on July 13, Shikhar Dhawan-led Indian side will play three ODIs and as many T20Is against Sri Lanka. “Leave aside the garland ceremony, we could not even glimpse at the players. The team was not escorted from the front but the players were sent in their rooms from the back,” the General Manager of the hotel was sid with the press.

Both Sri Lanka Team (From the UK tour) and India Team will be in Strict Bio-Bubble

When they arrive on July 5, not just the Indian team, but also the Sri Lankan team (who are on a tour of England) will be subjected to quarantine. The General Manager finished by adding that having the players at their hotel was an honour. “Both teams – India and Sri Lanka (arriving from the UK tour on July 5) – will be in strict bio-bubble. They will be catered by the designated staff, who are also staying in the hotel. Players will have their food at certain specified places only.”

“This (pandemic) is a different war and we miss the welcoming ceremony this time. However, it is our pleasure and honour to host them,” he added.

Despite the fact that Rahul Dravid’s request for practise games was denied, the 20-member group would take part in the phased-out training on July 2 and 4. After that, on July 5, the team will begin full training. The team consists of a solid group of players with a fair mix of youth and experience.

 

Also Read: Ranked: 5 Greatest ODI Players Of All-Time