IPL 2021: Kiran More tests positive for COVID-19

Former Indian batsman Kiran More, who is currently a part of the Mumbai Indians' coaching set-up, has tested positive for Covid-19. The veteran has isolated himself in Chennai, where the defending champions will play their first IPL games. This includes the tournament opener against the Royal Challengers Bangalore on April 9, 2021.

Kiran More had joined Mumbai Indians in March, where the first phase of the preparatory camp was carried out. It was the bio-bubble that the Indian cricketers who took part in the England limited-overs series - including Rohit Sharma, Krunal Pandya, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, and Suryakumar Yadav - joined. The entire Mumbai Indians team moved to Chennai on March 31, 2021. In Mumbai and Chennai, the franchise has rented a whole wing at team hotels in order to reduce the chances of the bio bubble being violated.

Two more ground staff members test positive for COVID-19 in Mumbai

As a preventive measure, Mumbai Indians abolished their practice sessions on Tuesday. The rest of the MI contingent underwent a rapid testing process, and all the players and staff returned negative results. It could not be assured whether Mumbai, who won their fifth IPL title last year, would resume training on Wednesday. After reaching Chennai, Mumbai Indians have conducted two practice sessions at Chepauk stadium on April 2 and 4, respectively.

As per BCCI's COVID guidelines for IPL 2021, the concerned person must isolate himself in the designated area outside the bio-secure environment for at least ten days. Things are looking worse in Mumbai as 12 ground staff at the Wankhede Stadium have tested positive for coronavirus. Sources within the Mumbai Cricket Association have confirmed the development on Tuesday.

With cases increasing in Mumbai, IPL teams have started feeling a little wary and are keeping their fingers crossed. Wankhede Stadium is going to host 10 IPL matches this year from April 10-25. The first IPL game at the stadium is going to take place on April 10 between DC and CSK. Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, and Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2021 season in Mumbai. The fifth IPL franchise Kolkata is also based in Mumbai currently. However, the team will soon head to Chennai to play their first game against Hyderabad on April 11.

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