Team India, Picture Credit: AFP
The bio-bubble to keep players safe from COVID-19 has proved to be an amazing weapon against the virus, but the fact cannot be ignored that the compulsions to maintain the bio-secure environment are taking a toll on the mental and physical health of the players. Many good players are opting out of important series or tournaments, either after failing to meet the bubble protocols or themselves making the choice of skipping the whole situation.
In the new normal where COVID-19 is as dangerous as it was, it is very important to take the health and well-being of players into account, given the problems they face due to the bio-secure protocols. Keeping these things in mind, it is being learned that the BCCI has decided to give a 20-day break to the touring male Indian players in the UK.
Team India to be on break from June 24
A day after their World Test Championship final against New Zealand ends, Team India will go outside their bio-bubble on a break for 20 days, starting June 24, reported ANI. They will come back in the bubble on July 14 for their next assignment that is a five-match Test series against England starting August 4. To avoid any problems while regrouping, Team India will have to be within the UK during their break.
It is worth noting that the players have travelled to England with their families and hence, a 20-day break will give them a great time to spend with their dear ones. The break becomes further important when we keep in account that days after the England series is over, the Indian players won't be getting much time to relax and will be heading directly to UAE for the remainder of IPL 2021.