The high-octane atmosphere surrounding the IPL 2024 Eliminator between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) has been overshadowed by an unexpected turn of events.
An air of secrecy and heightened security measures shrouded RCB's preparations on the eve of the knockout clash, raising concerns and casting a pall over the much-anticipated match.
While the Rajasthan Royals proceeded with their scheduled practice session at the Gujarat College Ground in Ahmedabad, RCB opted to forego theirs entirely.
This sudden and unexplained cancellation sent ripples through cricketing circles, leaving many bewildered by the lack of transparency.
The absence of a customary pre-match press conference from both teams further fueled the speculation.
According to Bengali publication Anandabazar Patrika, citing Gujarat Police sources, security concerns surrounding star batsman Virat Kohli may have played a pivotal role in RCB's unusual decision.
The report alleges that the Gujarat Police apprehended four individuals at Ahmedabad airport on Monday night, suspecting terror activity.
Incriminating evidence, including arms, suspicious videos, and text messages, was reportedly recovered from their hideout.
The police, acting swiftly, are said to have shared this information with both franchises.
While RR seemingly continued with their routine, prioritizing on-field preparation, RCB apparently took a more cautious approach.
The team informed security personnel of their decision to cancel the practice session, prioritizing the safety of their star player.
No official explanation was provided by RCB for the abrupt cancellation, further stoking the flames of intrigue. Given the high stakes of an Eliminator match, the lack of a practice session on the eve of the clash appeared highly unusual.
Both teams had arrived in Ahmedabad on Monday, with ample time for rest and recovery. The justification for skipping a crucial practice session remained shrouded in secrecy.
"The safety of Virat Kohli, a national treasure, is our paramount concern," declared Inspector Vijay Singha Jwala of the Gujarat Police. "He learned about the arrests upon arrival in Ahmedabad. RCB understandably did not want to take any unnecessary risks. They informed us that there would be no practice session. Rajasthan Royals were also apprised of the situation, but they chose to proceed with their practice as planned."
The heightened security measures extended beyond the cancellation of RCB's practice session. Security around the team hotel was significantly bolstered.
A separate entry was established exclusively for RCB players, inaccessible to other hotel guests.
Even authorised media personnel were denied entry to the hotel premises, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The report further details the elaborate security arrangements for the Rajasthan Royals.
Their team bus was reportedly escorted by three police convoys, creating a "green corridor" to ensure their safe passage to the practice ground.
Captain Sanju Samson's late arrival and the decision of key players like Ravichandran Ashwin, Riyan Parag, and Yuzvendra Chahal to skip the practice session altogether added to the sense of unease.
The RR players present at the ground were reportedly under constant surveillance by a heavy security presence, with police patrolling the entire ground meticulously.
The security concerns surrounding the high-profile match ultimately led to the cancellation of the pre-match press conference, depriving fans of valuable insights from the teams ahead of the crucial clash.
With heightened security protocols expected for the match itself, all eyes will be on how both teams navigate these unsettling developments and perform under immense pressure.
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