IPL 2021: Fans below 16 not allowed entry at Sharjah stadium

File image (Source: Twitter)

While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has opened the doors for fans in the second half of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in UAE, there are certain guidelines that need to be followed while witnessing the games in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah with an eye on COVID-19.

As per the regulations -- also shared with the eight franchises -- fans going to the Dubai International Cricket Stadium don't need to get a PCR test done 48 hours prior to entry into the stands, but will need double COVID-19 vaccination proof. The fans must also follow all social distancing regulations and wear masks at all times.

Only those below 12 years are exempted from carrying vaccination proof. Fans have also been asked to download tickets on mobile devices to help in scanning at the gates.

NEWS - VIVO IPL 2021 set to welcome fans back to the stadiums.

More details here - https://t.co/5mkO8oLTe3 #VIVOIPL — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) September 15, 2021

Things are slightly different in Sharjah when it comes to the age of fans allowed entry into stadiums. The minimum age required for entry into the Sharjah Cricket Stadium is 16+ years. While a vaccination report is required, the fans also need to carry PCR test results valid for no more than 48 hours prior to entering the venue. A green status on the Al Hosn App is a must for those keen to watch the games.

At the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, once again, fans above 16 must carry vaccination proof as well as PCR test results valid no more than 48 hours prior to entering the venue. Those in the 12-15 age bracket don't need vaccination proof but must carry a PCR test report.

Those below 12 must be accompanied by adults who are above 21. Wearing masks at all times is compulsory as is maintaining social distance regulations. Organisers will also implement temperature checks upon arrival and most importantly, once fans exit the stadium gate, they cannot re-enter.

The second half of the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League kickstarts with defending champions Mumbai Indians taking on Chennai Super Kings at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.