Australians likely to move to Maldives following IPL postponement: Report

Australians who featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, might be on their way to the Maldives amid the confusion caused by the postponement of the tournament and travel ban imposed by its government, according to a report by ESPNCricinfo.

There are currently 40 Australians featuring in the IPL including star players such as Steve Smith, David Warner, Pat Cummins, high-profile coaches such as Ricky Ponting, Simon Katich and commentators Brett Lee and Lisa Sthalekar. The group could follow commentator Michael Slater, who is believed to be on a flight to the Maldives.

The Australian government has imposed a ban on its citizens from returning home, if they have spent time in India up to 14 days before flying back.

On Tuesday, the BCCI announced that the current IPL season has been indefinitely suspended, while also mentioning that the players and staff will be returning to their homes in its official statement. 

Cricket Australia (CA) on Tuesday said that it will not seek exemptions from the government on the travel ban, but will work with the BCCI to ensure safe return of its players, staff and commentators.

"We need to send them home and we will find a way to do that," IPL Chairman Brijesh Patel told PTI.

Earlier this month, Royal Challengers Bangalore players Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa and Rajasthan Royals’ pacer Andrew Tye left for Australia through Doha, a route which has been now closed by the Australian government.

The CA has also clarified on Monday it has no plans to arrange for a charter flight to bring back the players after the IPL concludes on May 30.