Security concerns cast a shadow over the glitz of the Indian Premier League (IPL), as top international players withdraw from the tournament.
Australian pacer Mitchell Starc has refused to travel to India citing safety reasons, sparking serious questions about security arrangements at the high-profile event.
– Millions at stake, but zero security? –
Despite its multi-million-dollar stature, the IPL now finds itself grappling with a wave of withdrawals. The glamour appears to be fading amid increasing fears, with several players opting out of the remaining matches of the season.
Mitchell Starc has officially informed his franchise, Delhi Capitals, that he will not participate in the rest of the tournament. According to Australian media, Starc stands to lose more than 400,000 USD (over 110 million rupees) as a result of this decision.
– Players pulling out over safety concerns –
Former South African captain Faf du Plessis has also withdrawn from the IPL. Both Starc and du Plessis were set to feature in a match in Dharamshala that was eventually cancelled following a blackout.
According to Starc’s wife, Alyssa Healy, the match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals was cancelled due to a missile strike in the region.
Other prominent players including Moeen Ali, Sam Curran and Jofra Archer have also decided to skip the remainder of the season amid ongoing security concerns.
