(UTV | MUMBAI) – The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) says it is open to tour Sri Lanka in July for a 6-match limited over series, if the Government allows them to. “It all depends on Government directives pertaining to lockdown relaxations and travel restrictions. We are open to travel if it does not compromise safety and health of our boys,” Treasurer Arun Dhumal stated.
This was in response to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) letter to BCCI, offering to host India in a closed door 6 match tour (3 One Day Internationals [ODIs], 3 Twenty20 Internationals [T20I]) in July end, if they were ready to follow quarantine rules.
Does that raise hopes of Virat Kohli-led India, returning to cricket pitch with the Sri Lankan tour. That is a long shot. Indian players have been confined home, after imposition of nationwide lockdown from 25 March. A majority of the players, living in metro cities have been limited to fitness drills, with no space even to run. The Indian Board is still waiting for Government directives, before they can organise an outdoor skills camp for the players. Besides international travel has not resumed, the Hindustan Times reported.
SLC currently has no media rights holders and is looking to attract broadcasters, through India tour, by far the most attractive.
“If the BCCI is saying they are ready to tour, that is just smokescreen. They are telling Sri Lanka, we are willing to honour bilateral commitments,” a source tracking developments says.
Given the timelines, it appears unlikely that the series can be pulled off, at such a short notice.