New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson has undergone a coronavirus test after he reported sore throat at the end of the opening ODI against New Zealand on Friday. Ferguson was a part of the playing XI and bowled nine overs upon his comeback to international cricket. He has been isolated for now and will only join the squad if the result of the test is negative.
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The second ODI of the series takes place on Sunday and a clear picture on Ferguson will be available in the next few hours. Hence, New Zealand will be able to take a call on his availability before the contest.
He is the second player to be tested for coronavirus. Ahead of the first ODI, Kane Richardson also underwent the test after he complaint of mild sore throat. He was withdrawn from the squad ahead of the contest but joined his teammates at Sydney Cricket Ground as soon as the result of the report was out.
He is available for selection in the second ODI and is likely to be part of the playing XI. The second ODI takes place at the same venue.
Home team Australia dominated Kiwis in what could be a called a low-scoring contest. Batting first on a slow pitch, the Aaron Finch-led side put on a defendable total of 258 in 50 overs. New Zealand were bowled out on 187 in 41 overs in reply.
While spinners bagged five wickets for New Zealand, Australian pacers did the job for them by sharing eight wickets. The pitch is likely to get slower for the second ODI.
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The match will once again be played behind closed doors. The cricketing boards have no plans to cancel the series for now. After the three ODIs, the two teams are also slated to play three T20Is in New Zealand on March 24, 27 and 29, respectively. The series will mark the completion of the 2019/20 international season as well.