IPL franchises looking for a solution as South African cricketers are likely to miss IPL 2020

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to kick start the much-awaited 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2020) from September 19 in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. This would be the first time that the final of the cash-rich league would be held on weekday i.e November 10 (Tuesday).

10 double-headers matches will be played with the afternoon matches beginning at 3:30 pm and evening matches at 7:30 pm. Also, the apex board has issued a number of safety and security guidelines to be followed by all the franchises for the smooth conduct of the tournament.

However, the South African cricketers are likely to miss the first few weeks of the cash-rich league. South Africa is under lockdown with international travel restrictions. It is believed that the restrictions on borders and commercial flight operations could continue until September considering the rise in the number of coronavirus cases in the country.

Thus, doubt is looming over the participation of South African cricketers in the Indian league at least for the initial phase of the tournament.

We are in constant touch with the players from South Africa: A franchise head

A total of 10 South African cricketers including the likes of AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn, Faf du Plessis are bound by IPL contracts for season 13. Among the lot, only Imran Tahir would be available to play all the IPL matches as the cricketer was stuck in Pakistan for the past four months and is now preparing to play in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL 2020).

A franchise head told Sportstar that they will wait for BCCI’s decision before taking any call. “We are in constant touch with the players from South Africa. There are challenges for sure, but we are trying to look for a solution,” he said

Three Proteas cricketers AB de Villiers, Chris Morris and Dale Steyn are a part of Royal Challengers Bangalore 2020 squad while Faf du Plessis, Imran Tahir and Ngidi Lungi would represent the IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings. Also, Mumbai Indians has Quinton de Kock, Rajasthan Royals has David Miller, Delhi Capitals has Kagiso Rabada and Kings XI Punjab has Hardus Viljoen and coaching staff Jonty Rhodes.