With the COVID-19 situation is slowly getting better in some places around the world, England have decided to host other countries. However, with all precautionary measures, they are going to take on the West Indies men’s team for a Test series. after that, they will play against Pakistan men’s team as well. Even the England and Wales Cricket Board have decided to host a tri-series for women involving India and South Africa which is a great move, thinks former India player Sumathi Iyer.
While the team likely to tour England in August, the series is expected to take place in September. “It is important that the game resumes, for mental and financial welfare of the players. Resumption will help them get back the enthusiasm and the desire to play. Had the standstill continued for longer, many girls may have lost interest,” said Sumathi Iyer to The New Indian Express.
However, cricket will take place in a bio-secure atmosphere. India were about to tour England in June for a series but it got postponed due to the outbreak and restrictions imposed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Playing during Covid-19 times is completely different. It will be a challenging job for the coach to assemble the players, make them understand the new protocols and new rules. But our girls are passionate about the game and should come out with flying colours,’’ said Sumathi Iyer, who is also the chief of the selection committee for the Tamil Nadu senior team.
Meanwhile, the situation might not be too safe to play now and players also feel doubt in them but the former India player said that they shouldn’t be afraid. Notably, she was also the first Indian player to become an international umpire
“This bunch of players are professionals. One cannot expect them to be scared forever and sit at home. When England and West Indies are going to play and Pakistan too, the ECB would have certainly evaluated the situation,” added Sumathi Iyer. However, getting back into the zone is a concern amid this situation. “Our players are training at home and are fit. Once they go to England after the quarantine period, they will play practice games.”
