Last Updated on 5 years by Charbel Coorey

“It’s going to be strange”: Virat Kohli on playing the IPL without the fans

IPL 2020 is about to begin in a few days and this is the first time that the teams will be playing without the cheers of their fans. Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, IPL 2020 is taking place in UAE with the utmost precautions with playing within the bio-secure bubble norms. However, there is no denying that it’s going to be difficult for the players.

Also read: 5 big predictions for IPL 2020

“The atmosphere of an IPL T20 match is super pumped up and it also translates into the performance of a team. I won’t deny the fact that it’s going to be strange initially. Of course, it’s going to be new, just the echo of a ball hitting the bat I haven’t heard it in like 10 years”, said Virat Kohli in a video interview for Royal Challengers Bangalore Fans, YouTube channel.

“Playing Ranji Trophy cricket in 2010 is the last time I experienced it. So, for 10 years I haven’t had a game where I am not hearing the crowd but look again I would go back to the thought that it’s not like we haven’t done this before. So it’s important to remember that rather than saying that for 10 years I am used to this now; so I can’t do that. When you have an option, choose an option where you don’t just take your attention to the past experience. Because back then also you performed for the love of the game so focus on that. The crowd factor will definitely play a part, but when you are in the game doing what we do the best, so the instincts will kick in”, he said.

Another change that the new IPL rules talks about it there will no hi-five no celebrations where two players touch each other. Kohli mentioned that the bio-bubble is being respected in other matches as well, such as England vs Australia, and therefore the players from the same bubble do celebrate.

“I think that the players have celebrated after taking a wicket because they belong to same bubble, but yes after the wicken is taken and you mellow down a bit and new batsman comes then we need to stop ourself. So, basically its more of a balance. And as sensible people we need to keep these things at check”, he added.

Written by Anjali Jha. Follow Anjali on Twitter today.