The cricket tournament has proven a roaring success, despite coronavirus measures

After 52 games between eight teams in the Indian Premier League, the IPL finals are almost here between the Mumbai Indians and the Delhi Capitals.

While no one knows who will take the top spot in the last game (although the Mumbai Indians are the favourites) one thing is for certain: the real winner here is Dubai, which played host to one of the only sporting leagues still going forward during the coronavirus pandemic.

The IPL was held in Dubai in a bubble, with teams and staff kept separate from each other and residents of the UAE. Teams stayed in select hotels around the city, away from guests and often in their own private areas.

Support staff too – including coaching staff, umpires, medical staff, drivers, and everyone in between were also kept in a bubble, and like the players themselves saw rigorous testing before and in-between all matches.

The results have been good, and the IPL held in Dubai has gone off without a hitch.

The final is due to take place at 6:00PM Gulf Standard Time.

The IPL isn’t the only sport to thrive in the UAE during the pandemic. Abu Dhabi played host to the UFC’s Fight Island. Here’s what it was like living inside the Yas Island bubble.


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