Aussie IPL Stars May Have To Pay Heavy Penalty On Return Home
Australian cricketers may face trouble getting back home and could be left stranded somewhere after their media reported that the Australian government was mulling hefty fine and jail term for those r
"The federal government is considering fining and jailing anyone who tries to enter Australia from India amid that country's Covid-19 crisis," said a report in the Sydney Morning Herald (SMH).
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As many as 14 Australian cricketers are currently playing the Indian Premier League (IPL) in India. They include top draws like David Warner, Steve Smith, and Pat Cummins.
Australians are also part of various IPL franchises' coaching/support staff and TV commentary team. They include Ricky Ponting, David Hussey, Brett Lee, and Matthew Hayden among others.
"Nine News reported on Friday night that the government was considering a further step by making it a crime, punishable by a maximum $66,000 fine or five years' jail if they travel home from India," said the SMH report.
"Nine reported that federal Health Minister Greg Hunt would invoke powers under the Biosecurity Act -- the same legislation used to close the borders - as soon as Saturday."
While there are 36,000 Australians stuck abroad there are 9,000 Aussies in India including the cricketers. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison had earlier said that since the players are privately visiting India for the IPL they would have to ensure their return.
