‘He had some mild fever’ – KXIP CEO rubbishes ‘absurd’ rumours of Karun Nair testing COVID-19 positive

Satish Menon, the Chief Executive of Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), has dismissed the speculations of Karun Nair testing positive for the deadly coronavirus. He said that all Nair had was “mild fever” and he is training in Bengaluru ahead of KXIP’s departure to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the 2020 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

It was also learned that the Karnataka batter would have to go through three more tests. However, that he is up and running will come as a source of relief for the Punjab management. Menon also said that the guidelines pertaining to the COVID-19 situation are being followed strictly.

Karun Nair’s perfectly alright

“This is absurd, there is no truth in these reports. He had some mild fever, that’s all. Nothing to do with coronavirus. He’s perfectly alright and has started training. All our boys have started their training in their respective cities,” Menon was quoted as saying in The Times of India (TOI).

“The team management is very particular about all the social distancing guidelines and SOPs given by the BCCI. We are making sure there is no compromise on any of that. In fact, the management will educate each player individually about the risks involved and the importance of keeping a safe distance from the deadly virus,” he stated.

Before the team leaves for the UAE, KXIP head coach Anil Kumble has been on his toes, keeping the players fit. The veteran was appointed for the role last year after Mike Hesson’s departure to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).

Menon said that Kumble has been working with a number of young players, including Ishan Porel, who was picked at INR 20 lakhs by KXIP in the auction back in December 2019.

“Kumble has been very busy monitoring the players’ training and fitness once the dates of the IPL had been announced. Not only the Karnataka players, the head coach is also virtually keeping an eye on youngsters like Ishan Porel, who is training in Kolkata,” Menon added.

Menon further added that the Punjab franchise is contemplating taking eight practice bowlers to the UAE. The team will be based in Dubai and players and support staff will undergo a six-day quarantine period upon arrival.