England vs Sri Lanka: Match referee tests positive for COVID-19
What's the story
In a major development, the match referee who was officiating in the three-match T20I series between England and Sri Lanka, has tested positive for COVID-19. Phil Whitticase remains asymptomatic and will now isolate for 10 days as per the England Cricket Board (ECB). England and Sri Lanka will be engaged in a three-ODI series in the coming week, at Chester-le-Street, The Oval and Bristol.
Information
Whitticase to undergo a 10-day quarantine
Whitticase tested COVID-19 positive after undergoing a PCR test that was administered on Friday. Although he was asymptomatic and feeling well, the 56-year-old will have to serve a 10-day quarantine.
Others
Other officials could be impacted too
An ECB statement confirmed that several other officials might also have to undergo a 10-day isolation. "Seven other members from the match officials and anti-corruption unit teams were deemed close contacts, including five members due to officiate at the first ODI. Those impacted will have to self-isolate for 10 days until July 7. No members of the two teams were impacted," the statement read.
Schedule
ODI series: A look at the schedule
The first ODI is scheduled to be played on June 29 at the Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street. Kennington Oval (London) and County Ground (Bristol) will host the following two ODIs on July 1 and 4 respectively. As per a report in ESPNcricinfo, Chris Broad was due to be the match referee for the first ODI, with Michael Gough and Richard Kettleborough named as umpires.
Tour
England won the T20I series 3-0
England recently routed Sri Lanka 3-0 in the T20I series. They won the series opener by eight wickets at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff. The second T20I, which was a rain-curtailed fixture, was also won by the hosts (DLS). England comprehensively won the third and final T20I by 89 runs. They bundled out the visitors for 91 while defending 180.