Editor’s note: Updated with SAI’s response after Ajay Jayaram and Subhankar Dey’s appealed for help
Indian shuttlers Ajay Jayaram and Subhankar Dey were asked to withdraw from the SaarLorLux Open and put in isolation over contact with Lakshya Sen’s father-cum-coach DK Sen who tested positive for coronavirus. They had appealed for financial help and the chance to go back home since they have not tested positive.
In response to their appeal, the Sports Authority of India has offered to take care of the accommodation and food expenses. They have also been informed by the German authorities that they need to quarantine until November 10.
Earlier, defending champion Sen had withdrawn from the competition on Wednesday while Ajay had already played and won his opening-round clash on Monday.
After being asked to withdraw, Jayaram wrote in a Twitter post about the confusion around them.
“We have currently been asked to isolate with absolutely no other information from the organisers including our meals. We have our Covid negative certificates, and have NO symptoms. We are unable to contact the German local authorities. We would like to know if it is possible for us to get tested here again and come back to India,” Jayaram wrote in a post shared on social media.
He added that they tried contacting the organisers but haven’t got any response yet.
Dey further questioned the organisation over the health and safety measures.
“... questions need to be raised regarding the tournament management as to why the authorities didn’t enforce submission of covid certificate immediately upon arrival or a test on arrival at the hotel, the way it was arranged at Denmark Open a week ago. Due to the lack of administration and strict governance, we are unable to compete and also suffering a financial loss,” Dey wrote on his social media account.
The Badminton World Federation said that the Indian players were withdrawn as a precautionary measure after a member of their entourage tested positive for Covid-19. As of now, all three players have tested negative.
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!