Another Delhi Capitals (DC) overseas player, Tim Seifert has tested positive for Covid-19 ahead of clash against Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Brabourne Stadium, a source told Sports Tak. However, the clash between DC and PBKS is still on.
On April 18, Mitchell Marsh had tested positive for the virus which led to the venue change. Marsh was also hospitalised as he had a CT score of 17. Earlier, the match was supposed to take place at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Pune, but after Covid-outbreak in Delhi camp, it was shifted to Brabourne Stadium to avoid travel under circumstances.
What do the rules say?
Despite two players testing positive for the virus, the game can still go ahead as per Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 guidelines. According to Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) communique, the game can go ahead if a franchise has 12 players available which includes at least seven Indian players. In addition, they should have one substitute fielder.
If DC are unable to field a playing XI, BCCI will attempt to reschedule the match for a later date in the season. If that is not possible, then the issue will be referred the IPL technical committee which will take a decision which will be final and binding.
Seifert's IPL career so far
So far, Seifert has made just two appearances in the ongoing IPL 2022. On his Capitals’ debut he contributed with a 21-run cameo against Mumbai Indians (MI) in the successful run chase while opening the innings with Prithvi Shaw. In the next game, he got out for a single-digit score against Gujarat Titans (GT).
He was not included in the side after David Warner joined DC camp. However, with Marsh recovering from Covid and Rovman Powell struggling to score, Seifert had a chance of making it into the playing XI against PBKS.
In the previous season, Seifert had tested positive for the virus as well during the first phase of IPL 2021 in India. He played just one game for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) last season.
