It’s been more than two months since international cricket across the world stopped due to the Corona Virus pandemic, the entire sporting calendar has been left shattered by the pandemic which has forced several major events to be cancelled or suspended ,and many of those involved with the game are starving for some live action. On 19th May, the International Cricket Council released its ‘back to cricket’ guidelines for a phased return..After a long wait, England and West Indies look set to finally end cricket’s hiatus as the two sides will lock horns in a three-match Test series in July this year. The England Cricket Board (ECB) announced the schedule for the three-match series which remains to subject of clearance by the UK government. The matches will be played behind closed doors with no fans at the stadium. ICC made training mandatory for resumption of cricketThe International Cricket council (ICC) issued on May 19 guidelines that highlighted the importance of training before resuming cricket operations, pointing out fast bowlers. The apex body has issued specific guidelines considering fast bowlers’ workload and the risk they run of getting injured.The ICC also suggested format-specific training periods for bowlers all over the world, allowing them a minimum of 5-6 weeks of training, with the last three weeks involving bowling at match intensity in order to facilitate their return to T20Is.
CRICKET SITUATION IN INDIA
The government eased the lockdown(unlock 1.0) to contain the coronavirus and allowed sportspersons to use stadiums, leading to media reports that the Board for Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) will come up with guidelines for training by the end of June. BCCI had earlier postponed the new season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) indefinitely and is yet to take a call on the fate of the tournament.India is scheduled to tour Sri Lanka in August for limited-over series and according to ICC guidelines, the minimum preparation window would be six weeks (42 days). So, Indian cricket team needs to start its training by the end of June or early July to fulfil the ICC rules.Indian cricketers might resume training at their nearest stadiums once the government eases the restrictions in the fourth phase of the lockdown. BCCI Treasurer Arun Dhumal said BCCI is exploring options to see how players can resume skill-based training. With all cricketing action suspended in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, players have been making the most of their time at home.Despite being confined to their homes, cricketers have been following a fitness routine provided to them and are keeping themselves fit with the help of indoor exercises. However, Dhumal stressed that BCCI wants to focus on skills training once restrictions are eased. He also stated that the board has a roadmap ready for the resumption of training and matches post lockdown.
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