KKR will begin the second leg of their campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Abu Dhabi on 20 September.
Kolkata Knight Riders captain Eoin Morgan is excited about the prospect of fans returning to stadiums after the lifting of coronavirus-enforced restrictions on the resumption of IPL-14 in the UAE on Sunday.
The IPL, which was suspended in the league’s 14th season in May due to multiple COVID-19 cases in its bio-bubble, will resume in the UAE on Sunday.
On Wednesday, it was announced that fans would be allowed to watch a limited number of matches in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, in keeping with COVID protocols and UAE government regulations.
“I am incredibly excited to have fans back in the IPL this year. It’s been a long time since we heard that roar of KKR fans at Eden Gardens. Unfortunately, it’s not at home, but I can’t wait to hear it here in the UAE,” Morgan was quoted as saying by the KKR website.
The England limited overs captain was speaking on the sidelines of a training session.
Head coach Brendon McCullum also welcomed the move and believed the fans’ support would encourage them as they look to make the play-offs.
“It’s really fantastic. We were talking about whether the fans will come back. Now that we know they’re going to happen, it’s fantastic. Hopefully all the stadiums will be packed with KKR fans .
“We can definitely use their support. We have a big task ahead of us and we will definitely rally when we get the support of our fans. So, hopefully we will get the most out of it in UAE.” Batsman Rahul Tripathi was also excited about the arrival of fans for IPL matches for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic in the world.
“We have missed them (fans) a lot during this period. It’s always fun when someone is in the stands to cheer for you. I must say fans are welcome again.” The two-time IPL champions are seventh on the points table with four points from seven matches.
KKR will begin the second leg of their campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore in Abu Dhabi on 20 September.
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