IPL: Another Delhi Player Tests Positive, But Pant-Led Team Takes Field Vs Punjab Kings

Mumbai: A second overseas cricketer tested positive for COVID-19, taking the tally in the squad to six, but Delhi Capitals still decided to go ahead with their IPL-15 match against Punjab Kings on Wednesday evening.

When New Zealand wicketkeeper-batsman became the latest casualty – from among another round of Rapid Antigen tests conducted on Wednesday — after Australian batsman Mitch Marsh was hospitalized with coronavirus infection, there were doubts over today’s match taking place.

But the BCCI stuck to the schedule, though the match was shifted from Pune to Mumbai’s Brabourne Stadium.

Seifert, who was reported to be asymptomatic, will be moved to a facility away from the team hotel for isolation.

“Our session yesterday was pushed back so the preparations for this game haven’t been perfect… I addressed the group about the two options we have – we can drag our backsides around or we can take the positives around and realize that we are here for a big tournament with a great franchise,” said Delhi coach Ricky Ponting.

Skipper Rishabh Pant also sounded positive.

“It is unfortunate what has happened to us… But we have decided not to talk about it. We will give our best and hope the players who are positive get well soon,” Pant said after winning the toss.

Delhi Capitals have been inconsistent in the tournament so far, winning two and losing three.