Guwahati: Chennai Super Kings have suffered another blow as after Deepak Chahar, one more player from their camp has been tested positive for COVID-19. The name of the player has not been revealed yet. Earlier in the day, a report in The Times of India suggested that Chahar had tested positive for COVID-19. The right-arm pacer is in isolation. At least 10 more members of the CSK’s group are also in isolation.
The news of over 10 people testing positive for COVID-19 had forced the management to delay the preparations for IPL 2020 and the members of the Yellow Army will only be allowed to hit the field from September 1. As per the rules, all the players and officials are in isolation. They will undergo rounds of testing before being allowed to step out.
The contingent of all eight teams had stayed in isolation for six days upon landing in UAE. The players and officials were only allowed to leave their rooms after testing negative for COVID-19 thrice.
The members of CSK also stayed in isolation and the source of infection isn’t known yet. CSK is yet to confirm the news of two players and other staff members testing positive for COVID-19.
In another update, CSK’s vice-captain Suresh Raina has pulled out of the tournament due to personal reasons. He has reached India. The franchise has confirmed that Raina has flown back due to personal reasons.
“Suresh Raina has returned to India for personal reasons and will be unavailable for the remainder of the IPL season. Chennai Super Kings offers complete support to Suresh and his family during this time,” Kasi Viswanathan, CSK’s CEO, said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the players of at least four franchises have kicked off preparations for IPL 2020 after completing the isolation period. Delhi Capitals will train at ICC Academy from Saturday (August 29).
