We'll ensure you reach home seamlessly: BCCI assures foreign players at IPL
New Delhi: The BCCI on Tuesday said it would do everything to ensure that foreign players competing in the IPL reach their respective countries seamlessly once the tournament ends, a day after three Australians quit the event amid an upsurge of COVID-19 cases in India.
Andrew Tye (Rajasthan Royals) and the duo of Kane Richardson and Adam Zampa (both Royal Challengers Bangalore) withdrew as apprehension set in after a couple of weeks went by smoothly for the league held in front of empty stands across six venues.
"We understand that many of you are apprehensive about how you will get back home once the tournament concludes... We want to apprise you that you have nothing to worry about," BCCI COO Hemang Amin said in a letter addressed to the players.
"The BCCI will do everything to ensure that you reach your respective destinations seamlessly. The BCCI is monitoring the situation very closely and is working with the government authorities to make arrangements to get you home once the tournament concludes.
"Be rest assured that the tournament is not over for BCCI till each one of you has reached your home, safe and sound," he added.
India is recording over 3 lakh daily cases for the past few days and the health infrastructure is struggling to handle the rise with shortage of oxygen and some crucial medicines adding to the crisis.
Australia on Tuesday suspended all direct passenger flights from India with immediate effect until May 15 due to the "very significant" spike in COVID-19 cases.
Kolkata Knight Riders mentor David Hussey acknowledged that Australians in the IPL are a "bit nervous" about getting back home in the wake of the situation here.
Amin lauded the players for carrying on.
"As some of you have said, 'if we can help distract people from all the troubles of recent times, even if it is for a short while, we have done a great job'. When you all walk out onto the field, you are bringing hope to millions of people who have tuned in.
"If, even for a minute, you can bring a smile on someone's face, then you have done well. While you are professionals and will play to win, this time you are also playing for something much more important," he concluded.
Several England and New Zealand players are also competing in the event but haven't yet spoken about their concerns. The IPL final is scheduled to be held on May 30 in Ahmedabad.
As many as 14 Australian players remain in the event, including stars such as Steve Smith (DC), David Warner (SunRisers Hyderabad) and Pat Cummins (Kolkata Knight Riders), as well as coaches Ricky Ponting (DC) and Simon Katich (RCB).
Commentators Matthew Hayden, Brett Lee, Michael Slater and Lisa Sthalekar are also among the Australians involved with the league right now.
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ICAI Dubai Chapter officials honor prominent Kannadiga NRI SM Syed Khalil
Dubai: A delegation from The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI Dubai Chapter) recently visited the reputed NRI Businessman and founding member of the ICAI Dubai Chapter, SM Syed Khalil, at his residence in Dubai to extend their felicitations.
Led by Rajesh Kumar Somani, Chairman of the ICAI Dubai Chapter, the delegation included Secretary Rishi Chawla, Treasurer Dheeraj Ranasaria, and Executive Member Aashna Mulgaonkar.
During the visit, the delegation commended SM Syed Khalil for his dedicated service to the ICAI Dubai Chapter, where he served as Chairman for two terms between 1987 and 1994. They also acknowledged his ongoing guidance and support to the chapter's office bearers since its inception.
As a token of appreciation, the delegation presented SM Syed Khalil with a memento and expressed their gratitude for his continued support and mentorship in the future.
SM Syed Khalil, a distinguished chartered accountant, has contributed significantly to the UAE's business landscape, notably with the Galadari family for nearly three decades when he first joined as general manager of the Khaleej Times daily newspaper. His tenure includes serving as the Group Executive Director of Ilyas and Mustafa Galadari (IMG) Group from 2002 to 2011 and currently holding the position of Founding Chairman of K&K Enterprise, a general trading company based in Sharjah.
Prior to his UAE endeavors, Khalil held prominent roles with Mahindra Ugine Steel in India and served as Vice-Chairman of the Jashanmal Group of Companies. He also serves as the Chairman of Maadhyama Communications Ltd., and Chairman of news channel Sahil Online.
Additionally, he has established various media companies and charitable foundations in Dubai and India, demonstrating his commitment to philanthropy. He is also the patron and board members of various socio, cultural and charitable organisations both in India and UAE.
