Friday’s BBL match between Sydney Thunder and Adelaide Strikers is all set to go ahead despite the covid outbreak in Thunder’s camp. Notable that 4 players from the Sydney Thunder squad have been tested positive for Covid-19.
As BBL is approaching its middle phase, Covid-19 already made a significant impact in the tournament. On Thursday 7 players and 8 staff members from the Melbourne Stars camp were tested positive so the game between Stars and Scorchers was postponed.
However, South Australia Health approved Friday’s match between Sydney Thunder and Adelaide Strikers to go ahead under stricter guidelines.
“Firstly, our thoughts go to everyone in the community affected by the spread of Covid-19 in recent weeks, including members of our Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder squads,” Alistair Dobson, the general manager of Big Bash Leagues, said.
“We thank the Strikers, Thunder and SA Health for their hard work today to ensure this match can proceed. We will continue to work closely with our Clubs, relevant governments, broadcasters, partners, and venues to ensure the season continues safely and successfully throughout January.” he added.
The entire Sydney Thunder squad underwent another round of PCR tests on Thursday. It’s understood that Friday’s match will be played with strict guidelines released by CA. The entire Sydney Thunder players will have to maintain a certain distance from one another as well as the opposition.
Also when they will be batting, the entire squad is advised to sit in groups of not more than 3 players in a group.
As a cover, according to reports Thunder has called up spinner Arjun Nair and left-handed NSW batter Lachlan Hearne.
For the past few days, Covid made a significant impact in all corners of Australian cricket. Travis Head was tested positive earlier in the day and set to miss out on the 4th Ashes Test in Sydney.
Earlier 7 members from England touring party have been tested positive and England coach Chris Silverwood had to isolate himself as he was identified as one of the close contacts of a positive case.
Match referee David Boon was also tested positive and will miss the Sydney Test as he was replaced by Steve Bernard.
Also Read: Travis Head Ruled Out Of Sydney Test With Positive Covid-19 Result