The limited-overs series between India and Sri Lanka has been postponed following positive cases of the COVID-19 in the Sri Lankan team camp. On Thursday, Sri Lanka’s batting coach Grant Flower and data analyst G T Niroshan had tested positive for Covid-19 upon their return from their tour to England.
“All players of the team have tested negative. But we are mindful of the fact that the team’s batting coach & data analyst tested positive. And for that reason, we are likely to reschedule the series”, confirmed Sri Lanka Cricket Secretary Mohana De Silva.
“Yes, the series will now start from 17th of July instead of 13th. The decision was taken in consultation with SLC keeping the safety and security of players in mind,” a senior BCCI official told PTI, confirming the development.
According to the reports in Cricbuzz, The three-match ODI series, which was scheduled to begin on July 13 is now likely to start on July 18. As the cases have forced Sri Lanka Cricket to extend the quarantine period of the Sri Lanka players who have come from England. The Srilankan Cricket Board has confirmed that Sri Lankan players who came back from the UK have tested negative.
“We understand that circumstances are extraordinary. But the BCCI would like to extend its full support to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) during these tough times for the smooth conduct of the upcoming series. Our medical team is in constant touch with the team of doctors at SLC. And together following all safety protocols that will help the series to get underway. We are confident that both nations will put up a spirited show in the days to come and we are in for some exciting cricket.” said BCCI’s Honorary Secretary, Jay Shah
“We are grateful to the BCCI for understanding the situation and agreeing to cooperate with us at this moment of time, as it has done on numerous occasions, during our long-standing relationship,” SLC CEO, Ashley de Silva added
Indian Team has finished their quarantine and also played 2 practice games in the meantime. Manish Pandey, Prithvi Shaw, Surya Kumar Yadav, and Rituraj Gayakwad scored fifty. Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yuzi Chahal, and Kuldeep Yadav were some of the star performers with the ball in the two practice games. The young Indian squad is led by Shikar Dhawan with Rahul Dravid as a head coach.
The Revised Fixtures:
1st ODI – July 18
2nd ODI – July 20
3rd ODI – July 23
1st T20I – July 25
2nd T20I – July 27
3rd T20I – July 29
