We will definitely miss our fans because they are everything to us: Ajinkya Rahane

The upcoming Indian Premier League season will be played in the UAE, and the tournament is scheduled to begin on September 19. The whole tournament will adhere to strict protocols of the bio-secure bubble system. 

Speaking at India Today’s show Inspiration, Indian vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane said that fans play the most important role in the careers of all sportspersons. With IPL 2020 being played behind closed doors which is a big drawback, but the health and safety of everyone involved cannot be compromised.

"We will definitely miss our fans. Fans are everything to us. When they come out and support us in the stadiums, it feels really good, inspires us to do well. Again, you got to think about their health and safety as well. We will miss them in the stadium. We are going to play for them, for our fans. I am sure they will enjoy watching us on TV," Rahane said.

"Talking about the bubble, it's important, we follow all the protocols. We were actually not sure when we were in New Zealand in Feb-March as to what is going to happen next. But now in August and September, we are in a situation where we should be realistic and be disciplined. I don't think it will take too much time to adjust. It's just a matter of 2-3 days being with the team to get used to the rules.” he added.

The 32-year-old believes that following protocols and maintaining discipline is very significant moving forward in the coming months, as this is the new normal.

"I think, following the protocols and being focussed and disciplined will be really important, going forward at least for the next 7-8 months. IPL is happening, sadly because of the Covid-19 situation it's happening in Dubai. But you got to be happy for other people as well," Rahane said.

[India Today inputs]