'Reminder of the times we are living in' - Aakash Chopra reacts after CSK pacer, 12 support staff members test COVID-19 positive

The entire cricket fraternity was left stunned on Friday after 10 members of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp, including an Indian player, reportedly tested positive for the novel coronavirus. It was a huge blow for the MS Dhoni-led side as they’ll now have no option but to wait before kicking off their IPL 2020 preparations.

Cricketer-turned-commentator Aakash Chopra also joined the bandwagon to wish the COVID-19 positive members a speedy recovery. The recovery of these people will be vital in the successful commencement of this year’s IPL.

“10 members of #CSK (including an India player) found #COVID19 positive. Wish them all a speedy recovery but it does serve as a significant reminder of the times we are living in. The sanctity of the Bio-secure bubble can never be overstated. #IPL,” said Chopra on Twitter.

10 members of #CSK (including an India player) found #COVID19 positive. Wish them all a speedy recovery but it does serve as a significant reminder of the times we are living in. The sanctity of the Bio-secure bubble can never be overstated. #IPL

— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) August 28, 2020

BCCI is expected to release IPL 2020 schedule by August end

Other franchises including Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders have been granted access to the outdoor facilities from Friday onwards. However, after such reports, Chennai Super Kings will have to extend their quarantine period until the end of the month. The IPL 2020 is set to start from September 19th and CSK will have less time to get in rhythm before the tournament commences.

Kolkata Knight Riders and defending champions Mumbai Indians were also caught in a fix as they had to extend their quarantine from 7 to 14 days; as per rules in Abu Dhabi. However, both the franchises, who are camped in Abu Dhabi, have been given relaxations in quarantine rules and they will now begin their preparations in full flow.

After their arrival in the UAE, every franchise was asked to stay in a bio-security bubble. COVID-19 tests were conducted on the players on the first, third and fifth day.

The thirteenth edition of the IPL, after many delays, is finally slated to start from September 19th in the UAE. Amid the COVID-19 situation across the globe, the BCCI felt the need for staging the T20 extravaganza in the UAE this year. The Indian board is expected to release the full schedule of the tournament by the end of August.