Despite the IPL franchises and management operating in a bio-secure bubble amid the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, a number of players from different teams got infected with the virus, leading to the temporary suspension of the tournament.

It was earlier reported that tonight's match between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians could be rescheduled after one of the players from the former team tested positive for Covid-19. The BCCI has now issued a statement, announcing the temporary suspension of the cash rich league.

"The Indian Premier League Governing Council (IPL GC) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in an emergency meeting has unanimously decided to postpone IPL 2021 season, with immediate effect. The BCCI does not want to compromise on the safety of the players, support staff and the other participants involved in organising the IPL. This decision was taken keeping the safety, health and well-being of all the stakeholders in mind," the BCCI stated.

Last night's match between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore was rescheduled after the former team's bowlers Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier tested positive for Covid-19. A while later, it was reported that three members of the Chennai Super Kings' IPL contingent, including the team's CEO Kasi Viswanathan, had tested positive for the virus.

The BCCI release added, "These are difficult times, especially in India and while we have tried to bring in some positivity and cheer, however, it is imperative that the tournament is now suspended and everyone goes back to their families and loved ones in these trying times."