Shakib says ICC guidelines on resumption of cricket need more clarity

Banned Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al-Hasan feels ICC guidelines on ways to resume cricket leave a lot of unanswered questions and re are issues which require discussion before sport returns from coronavirus-forced hiatus. As member nations ease restrictions imposed to contain COVID-19 pandemic, International Cricket Council on Friday issued comprehensive guidelines aimed at getting sport up and running around world while at same time maintaining highest safety protocols. measures include appointment of chief medical officers, a 14-day pre-match isolation training camp and use of gloves by umpires while handling ball.

Shakib says ICC guidelines need more clarity

"w we are hearing that it (COVID-19 virus) might spread around 12 feet, t just three or six. So does it mean two batsmen can't meet at end of over?" asked cricketer who is serving a one-year ban for failing to report corrupt approaches.

"y will stand at ir ends? Won't re be any crowd in stadium? Will wicketkeeper stand afar? What would happen to close-in fielders? se things require discussions," he was quoted as saying by 'Prothom Alo' newspaper. 

ICC also suggested format-specific training periods for bowlers all over world, allowing m a minimum of 5-6 weeks of training, with last three weeks involving bowling at match intensity in order to facilitate ir return to T20Is. 24-year-old, however, said ICC is unlikely to let cricket resume without assessing situation properly.  "I don't think y (ICC) will take a chance before y are very sure. Whatever it is, life comes first. I am sure y will think of safety first," he said.

Shakib said he is spending time counting days for his return.

"I am counting days in two ways. One, when will corona be over, and or, when will my suspension end. I am going through a tough time. Although re's cricket going on anywhere, I kw that if it starts tomorrow, I won't be able to play cricket.

"When you are restricted about something, wher ors talk about it or t, you kw yourself about what you are going through," he said.

Im credits: AP