XtraTime Web Desk: Australian fast bowler Josh Hazzlewood on Monday raised concerns about the coronavirus outbreak in the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp. Hazzlewood, who has been picked by the Chennai based franchise for the upcoming 13th edition of Indian Premier League, is worried about the recent developments. As many as 13 team members including Deepak Chahar and Rituraj Gaekwad had tested positive of the dreaded virus.
“There’s a little bit of concern. It would be ideal to have no cases. They are obviously in quarantine now, and it would extend over the next few days. Once the IPL comes closer, we will think more about that,” said Hazlewood in a virtual press conference on Monday.
The franchise’s problems have been compounded with Suresh Raina pulling out of IPL 2020 because of “personal reasons”. The premier Australian fast bowler admitted that Cricket Australia is yet to discuss the issue with the players about the IPL.
According to Hazzlewood, “We haven’t thought too much about it. It [IPL] is a few weeks away. If there are COVID-19 cases still happening closer to the starting date then we will touch base with Cricket Australia and have a chat.”
The 29-year-old heaped praise on CSK, one of IPL’s most successful franchises saying, “As far as chances are concerned CSK are always in the semis… always played their part in the final series. It is my first year there, but it will be no different. They are always a strong side – a big franchise always there to win it.”
The upcoming IPL 2020 will start from September 19 in UAE with the final scheduled for November 10. The 53 day tournament will be played across three venues in UAE – Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi.