ISL: COVID-19 cases on the rise; new protocols announced

After players in the ATK Mohun Bagan camp tested positive to postpone their game against Odisha, more cases have been reported in the ISL bio bubble. This is the first time in two years that the bio bubble has been breached with a positive case. 

According to TOI, two more ATK Mohun Bagan players have tested positive in the last two days. FC Goa have also had their training cancelled after one of their players was feared to be positive. However, their report returned a negative result. 

Three of their players and one coaching staff have been sent into isolation as a result of the breach, following contrasting reports. 

ISL COVID-19 cases on the rise 

“The cases have largely emerged after new players and support staff joined (teams) this month,” a source told TOI.

“For the last four days, testing has increased with players being tested every day and those teams with suspect cases being tested every 12 hours”, the source further added.

While ATK vs Odisha has been postponed, the ISL board has adopted a new policy that states that matches will still go ahead if both teams have 15 players available. Otherwise, they will try to reschedule the game. 

If that is not possible, the team with no players available will have to forfeit the game 3-0. On the other hand, both teams being unable to field teams will result in a 0-0 draw. The league has also made it compulsory for players to wear N95 masks at all times. The only exception is when they are warming up or playing games.