IPL commentator Michael Slater escapes to Maldives, criticises own govt

New Delhi, May 3

Former Australia opening batsman Michael Slater, who was here as part of the IPL’s commentary team, has left India and is reported to be in the Maldives, where he must remain before he is allowed to fly into Australia.

After the Australian government banned flights from India, around 9,000 Australians are stranded in India. These include several current and former cricketers — numbering around 40 — who are part of the IPL as players, support staff or commentators.

Slater today lashed out at Australian prime minister Scott Morrison for not allowing Aussies stranded in India to return to their country.

“If our government cared for the safety of Aussies they would allow us to get home. It’s a disgrace!! Blood on your hands PM. How dare you treat us like this. How about you sort out quarantine system. I had government permission to work on the IPL but I now have government neglect,” he tweeted, adding: “And for those who think this is a money exercise. Well forget it. This is what I do for a living and I have not made a penny having left early. So please stop the abuse and think of the thousands dying in India each day. It’s called empathy. If only our government had some!”

Three Australian players — Andrew Tye of the Rajasthan Royals and Kane Richardson and Adam Zampa of the Royal Challengers Bangalore — had cut short their IPL stints and returned to Australia last week, before passengers originating were blocked completely from Australia. — TNS