IPL 2021: COVID-19 protocols for fans and players in UAE leg

After conducting the Indian Premier League sans fans for the last one and a half season, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opened the doors for spectators in UAE. However, certain COVID-19 guidelines are in place to ensure that the tournament takes place in a safe manner at Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. 

Here are the guidelines for fans:

Dubai

– Fans going to the Dubai International Cricket Stadium don’t need to get a PCR test done 48 hours prior to entry into the stands, but will need double COVID-19 vaccination proof.

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– Fans must also follow all social distancing regulations and wear masks at all times.

–  Only those below 12 years are exempted from carrying vaccination proof.

– Fans have been asked to download tickets on mobile devices to help in scanning at the gates.

Sharjah

– The minimum age required for entry into the Sharjah Cricket Stadium is 16+ years.

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– Along with vaccination report, fans also need to carry PCR test result valid for no more than 48 hours prior to entering the venue.

–  A green status on the Al Hosn App is a must for those keen to watch the games.

Abu Dhabi

– Fans above 16 must carry vaccination proof as well as PCR test results valid no more than 48 hours prior to entering the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

–  Those in the 12-15 age bracket don’t need vaccination proof but must carry PCR test report.

– Those below 12 must be accompanied by adults who are above 21.

–  Wearing masks at all times is compulsory as is maintaining social distance regulations.

– Organisers will implement temperature checks upon arrival.

– Once fans exit the stadium gate, they cannot re-enter.

For the players:

– RT-PCR test 72 hours before their scheduled departure compulsory.

– It is not mandatory but advisable for all participants to be fully vaccinated.

Also read: IPL 2021: How the teams fared in the India leg

– All individuals within a bubble will be tested twice a week during the second week and thereafter every fifth day for the entire duration of the tournament.

– Any participant testing positive for COVID-19 will have to isolate for a minimum of 10 days.

– The individual will be tested on day nine and day ten.

– Two consecutive negative RT-PCR tests taken 24 hours apart, full resolution of symptoms, and no use of medication for more than 24 hours are mandatory for re-entry into a bubble.

– To account for any false positive tests resulting from historical infections, serology tests and repeat RT-PCR tests may be conducted.

– The saliva ban continues.

– If the ball goes in the stands or out of the stadium, it will be replaced. The original ball, when recovered, will be sanitised and placed in the ball library.