After returning from one of their worst cricketing tours of all time against Kane Williamson and the New Zealand roster, the Men in Blue were looking to get some redemption time against the visiting South African side at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association stadium in Dharamshala.

However, while the losing streak is a major cause of worry for Virat Kohliâs squad, there is yet another threat that looms over each and every player involved in the match: the coronavirus.

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With over 1,26,000 cases detected all over the world, 62 in India and 13 in South Africa, the players and the cricket boards of the two nations are justifiably worried about their health and wellbeing.

Other than washing their hands with soap or sanitizers, under such circumstances, the players have been acknowledged of some of the major Dos and Don'ts that they must adhere to in order to maintain the safety of themselves, their teammates and their opponents.

Donât Use Saliva To Shine The Ball

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For decades now, bowlers from all over the world have been using their saliva for shining the ball which helps them get a swing in their deliveries. The bowler licks his hands and then rubs the ball with the saliva to do the needful. Obviously, this is a major cause of worry as everyone touches the ball while bowling or fielding and looking at how contagious the virus is, there should be an absolute ban on it.

Donât Take Selfies With Fans

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As cricketers in India, it is virtually impossible for them to not get surrounded by fans and spectators in public. Without the knowledge of where these fans come from and with whom had they met before coming to the stadium to watch the match, it is preferable for the athletes to refrain from engaging with the audience. 

On Wednesday, the BCCI announced that the players ought to stay away from people who arenât staff members and gadgets and objects that do not belong to them.

Donât Shake Hands With The Opponents

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Cricket is a gentlemanâs game and shaking hands with your opponents before and after the match is a tradition which has been kept alive ever since the inception of the sport itself. However, given the circumstances, making such an exception is probably the best idea. 

Both the BCCI and Proteas head coach Mark Boucher have also mentioned that theyâd keep away from the customary handshakes throughout their time in India.

Do Have Medical Tests After Every Match

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As cumbersome as it may be, the cricketers from either side must undergo medical tests after every match regardless of them taking all the necessary precautions throughout game time and their stay at the hotels in Dharamshala and Lucknow during their three-match ODI series.

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