Chennai Super Kings all-rounder Ruturaj Gaikwad along with the pacer Deepak Chahar had tested positive for coronavirus. Chahar cleared the COVID-19 test and also joined his team mates for the training session at the ICC Academy.
But Gaikwad is still under quarantine and still not cleared any round of the COVID-19 tests. He is still asymptomatic needs to clear both the tests before joining the squad.
“We are waiting for BCCI to give us a clearance on Gaikwad. He has to undergo the fitness tests [as well],” CSK CEO Kasi Vaiwanathan told ESPNcricinfo.
As per the protocols, any individual testing positive for the coronavirus under the bubble has to self-isolate for 14 days. He will also have to clear two COVID-19 tests for two consecutive days and undergo other medical tests before starting the training.
Chennai Super Kings have already dealt with a huge blow after Suresh Raina pulled out of IPL 2020. Later, the veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also pulled out of the tournament, leaving the franchise in a fix.
The franchise was certain of Gaikwad’s return before the tournament opener as he could have filled in the void left after Raina’s exit. However, the scenario doesn’t seem to favour them as they prepare to face Mumbai Indians on September 19.
Currently, the team is waiting for two of its premium pacers Josh Hazlewood and Sam Curran who will fly to the UAE after England-Australia series.
The first day of the IPL will have Mumbai Indians take on Chennai Super Kings in Abu Dhabi which is designated as home ground for the defending champions.
