Teams participating in the IPL are finally padding up for one of the biggest sporting extravaganza (“Mumbai Indians players to undergo 5 rounds of COVID-19 tests before heading to UAE,” Aug.4, Gulf Today).

The pandemic has upset sporting schedules forcing organisers to either cancel or postpone competitions. The rescheduling of the 2020 summer Olympics was a huge setback on many counts. As for cricket the postponement of T20 World Cup made way for the IPL. With India losing out on hosting the event due to the rising cases, UAE will be in the spotlight.

Recently England successfully organised the Test series against the West Indies, which should give BCCI, the organizers of IPL, some tips on how to play the tournament under the new conditions. Logistically it will be a big challenge considering that unlike the England series, the IPL will be playing eight teams over a 45-day period.

The tournament will also put to test the digital expertise of the broadcasters because most of the fun will be killed bereft of fans in the stands. As of now it is likely to be a closed door tournament.

It will be good to also see how players perform without crowd support. A new experience awaits all.

Desiree R — By email