Coronavirus outbreak: Australia vs New Zealand ODIs, T20Is called off
The limited-overs series (ODIs, T20Is) between Australia and New Zealand have been called off owing to the coronavirus outbreak which has caused a worldwide catastrophe. The decision to call off the series came after the New Zealand government tightened its border restrictions in the wake of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Here are all the details regarding the same.
New Zealand players set to return home post series cancellation
The first ODI between the two sides was played on Friday behind closed doors. Australia went on to pocket the match by 71 runs. The series was set to continue without any fans, however, keeping the bigger picture in mind, the decision was taken. The remaining two ODIs, scheduled for Sunday in Sydney and Hobart on Friday, have been called off alongside the T20Is.
Richardson and Ferguson ended up with sore throats
Prior to the ODI series, Aussie pacer Kane Richardson was quarantined and tested for the novel coronavirus. Cricket Australia followed government protocols and kept Kane away from rest of the squad. Meanwhile, post the completion of the first ODI, New Zealand's fast bowler Lockie Ferguson was placed under isolation after he complained of a sore throat at the end of the first ODI.
14-day self-isolation period made mandatory for people returning from Australia
New Zealand has decided to enforce a mandatory 14-day self-isolation period for everyone entering the country from Australia. This is set to come to effect from midnight tomorrow. The Kiwi players are therefore making arrangements to fly home on Saturday evening.
Coronavirus has impacted both the IPL and SL-England series
Coronavirus has caused a worldwide catastrophe and all sport in the world has been impacted severely. This led to the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to get postponed. IPL 2020 was set to start on March 29 but has now been scheduled to begin on April 15. Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka-England Test series was also called off.
India vs SA ODIs called off as well
The three-match ODI series between India and South Africa had started on March 12. However, the first ODI in Dharamsala. was abandoned due to rain. The next two matches were set to be played in Lucknow and Kolkata respectively. Earlier, it was decided that the matches will be played behind closed doors. However, on Friday, the BCCI called off the ODI series.
