Reports: CAB President Avishek Dalmiya tests positive for COVID-19, hospitalised in Kolkata

In what can be called a major development, Cricket Association of Bengal President Avishek Dalmiya has been diagnosed with COVID-19. He was subsequently admitted to the Woodlands Multispeciality Hospital in Kolkata. The week gone by has seen a sudden rise in COVID-19 cases in India. West Bengal is also among the regions where many cases have been recorded lately.

In fact, many local players have also been tested positive. Owing to the same, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) announced that the local tournaments of First Division, Second Divison, and District, have been put on hold. Considering the current pandemic situation in mind, the CAB had conducted RTPCR Tests of all Bengal cricketers.

Certain Bengal players have been tested positive for COVID-19

Speaking of the CAB boss, Avishek, as per a report in NDTV, was tested positive for the virus on Monday. Doctors have advised monoclonal anti-body cocktail therapy for him. Meanwhile, CAB on Tuesday stated that certain Bengal players have been diagnosed with coronavirus. Hence, the cricket body is taking precautions to avoid any mishap.

“The results have come & it has been found certain players had tested positive. CAB is taking all necessary precautions & actions in this regard,” stated an official CAB release. The CAB also stated that an Emergency Apex Council has been formed to take necessary decisions and review the current COVID situation.

“The CAB is also taking immediate steps to vaccinate the registered players who fall in the 15-18 age bracket since health and safety of the Cricketers and all concerned in the paramount to the association,” said an official CAB notice.

Meanwhile, a report in ESPNcricinfo has claimed that seven members of the Bengal Ranji Trophy squad – six players and a support staff member – have tested positive for the COVID-19. The same had put uncertainty over the upcoming Ranji Trophy season. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly confirmed that the premier First-Class tournament will be conducted as per schedule.

“Yes, the Ranji Trophy will proceed as planned,” Ganguly was quoted as saying by the Times of India. It must be noted that BCCI successfully organized the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy 2021-22 and Vijay Hazare Trophy last year. Hence, they would want the Ranji Trophy season to go smooth as well.