The coronavirus outbreak has forced the cancellation of another series as the remainder of Australia-New Zealand fixtures have been postponed. The second and third ODI of the series were to be played on Sunday and Friday (next week) following which Australia were to travel to New Zealand for three T20Is.
Also Read: BCCI Axes Sanjay Manjrekar From Commentary Panel: Report
The update comes a day after two international series and a T20 league were also postponed. At the start of the day, BCCI postponed the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League until April 15.
In the afternoon, BCCI and Cricket South Africa postponed the next two ODIs that were to be played in Lucknow and Kolkata. In the evening, England Cricket Board also postponed their ongoing tour of Sri Lanka. As far as IPL goes, the BCCI hopes to stage the tournament. There will no number of double-headers so as it ends by May 31.
Talking of the Australia-New Zealand series, the two teams did play the first ODI in Sydney on Friday. The match was played behind the closed doors. The doors were to remain closed for spectators for second ODI as well but now the series has been postponed.
It is to be noted that two players who were part of the series were tested for coronavirus. Australia’s Kane Richardson was tested before the first ODI. The result of the report was negative and he joined the team at SCG in the evening.
New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson underwent the test few hours back and is awaiting the result of the test. He has been isolated for 24 hours.
Also Read: New Zealand Player Tested For Coronavirus, Isolated For Next 24 Hours
Pakistan Super League (PSL) is the only marquee tournament that is currently being played. Although, many overeaters players have left the country. Pakistan is scheduled to host Bangladesh after PSL. Looking at the present scenario, it is unlikely that both the boards will agree to play the fixtures.
BCCI is also expected to take a call on Irani Cup that will be played between Saurashtra and Rest of India next week.