Franchises urge BCCI to make changes in SOPs issued ahead of IPL 2020

IPL teams have demanded the BCCI to make certain changes in the SOPs issued to them earlier to be followed during the league. SOPs have been drafted for the franchises to have a hassle-free IPL. The teams, however, have demanded certain changes including the shorting of the quarantine period and a contact-less food delivery during their stay.

On 2nd August, the governing council of the league confirmed that UAE will host this year’s edition of the cash-rich league from  19th September to 10th November. Detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that were released yesterday which laid out a plan of rigorous testing of players and support staff.

Franchises ask if quarantine time can be adjusted to three days

The franchises, in a note to BCCI, have asked the consider if quarantine time can be adjusted to three days instead of six. “Subject to the advice of medical professionals, can we consider allowing players to practice by staying in the bubble, with 3 days of quarantining instead of 6 days?” read the note as quoted by The Times of India.

The franchises have also sought clarity on a point in SOPs suggesting Franchises will not be able to interact with like they used to do earlier.

“Currently, the SOP suggests that they cannot interact with the squad, unless they are a part of the bubble. Owners will not be able to spend 3 months in a bubble. Therefore, are there any specific protocols based on medical advice that can be considered for infrequent interactions with owners and families?” the note stated.

The franchise note also mentioned the issue of game pressure often dealt by players. They cited the protocols of keeping players in good mind space which were followed in the England-West Indies series.

“One big area of concern is the wellbeing of the players as they stay in a bubble for 80+ days. The pressures of competitive sport do not make it any easier.  We understand protocol and bubble strategy from England versus West Indies series included activities such as golf, visits to specific restaurants, and visits to some pre-determined places. Can IPL consider this with the advice of medical professionals?” the note read.

They also advised BCCI to consider contact-less food delivery for players and support staff. “Can the IPL also consider allowing food orders from designated delivery outlets using contactless deliveries to the hotel?” franchises advised in their note.

The note also had a point in which the teams have requested the BCCI to allow players coming from the Caribbean Premier League and bilateral series between England and Australia early boarding.

“CPL concludes on September 10 and the bilateral series between England and Australia concludes on September 16. These two events account for nearly 25 players participating in IPL. Subject to the guidance of medical professionals’, can we consider early on-boarding of these players?” read another point in the note.