- The pandemic-induced restrictions had to be circumvented to allow the resumption of several economic activities without providing easy opportunities for the dreaded novel coronavirus to spread its dreaded wings. The sporting associations too came up with a workable solution by introducing a secure bio-bubble environment by assiduously following stringent protocols defined for the purpose. Though abhorred by scores of sporting personalities for its strict adherence entailing spending alone in isolation for weeks, there was no denying the fact that the only way to resume stalled activities was to diligently observe the well-laid-out guidelines. Any recommencement rather than cooped up inside the four walls was most welcome, you see.
PC: The leaders-Online
- And thus commenced many sporting organizations embracing the novelty measure with fanfare even though spectators had to be kept away from witnessing the events from stadiums. In the beginning, the television broadcast was the only viable option available to catch live action. Empty stadiums did make for a boring spectacle bereft of usual noise and buzz associated with teeming patrons thronging the venue. Fortunately, the situation on the pandemic front is easing gradually and with the advent of vaccination ensuring reduced severity of the infection, many governments across the world are allowing spectators into the stadiums. A case in point is the recently concluded Test series between Indian and England.
- The demanding schedule and continued adherence to bio bubble guidelines are leading to unheard-of mental complications. Consequently, many sporting icons are coming out in the open feeling completely fatigued and unable to handle the excruciating mental pressure created by the bio-bubble which restricts social interactions and freedom of movement fearing an outbreak of infection. Staying away from families for months on and hopping on to different bio-bubbles is taking a heavy toll on sportsmen forcing them to pull out from competing by citing mental issues.
PC: Rohit Ganguly
- The sporting associations have been very considerate in understanding the necessity to allow a break for those seeking from competing. Some like England and Wales Cricket Board has followed a rotational policy giving timely breaks for the cricketers from time to time. Nonetheless, there are several bio-bubble breaches reported by different sporting disciplines leading to suspension, postponement, and in some cases, cancellation of events themselves. It is worthwhile noting that creating a secure bio-bubble environment entails a huge amount of expenses involving few important stakeholders like sponsors and broadcasters having invested millions to make the event possible.
- Call it adventurous indulgence or sheer lack of awareness or simple fatigue, many sportsmen knowingly or unknowingly are breaking the secure environment proving to be troublesome for the organizers. Even an innocuous-looking break potentially carries risks of leading to an infection outbreak jeopardizing the entire event so painstakingly organized for months on. Needless to mention, the onus is on sporting organizations to impress upon their players and athletes to adhere to guidelines. Hopefully, the rampaging virus would be eventually subdued allowing resumption of normal sporting activities sooner than later. Keeping fingers crossed.
