The Ashes, MCG Test: England players cleared after COVID-19 scare
In a major development, members of the England touring party cleared a round of COVID-19 testing before Day 2 of the ongoing Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Reportedly, two members of the support staff, including two from their families, tested positive for COVID-19. As a result, the start of play on Day 2 was delayed. Here are further details.
Why does it matter?
Coronavirus has breached the England camp as two support staff members have tested positive. As per the Victoria government, 1,999 new positive COVID-19 cases have emerged from 57,818 statewide tests (on Boxing Day). According to the guidelines in Melbourne, close contacts only have to isolate until they return a negative test. All England players had tested negative before taking the field on Day 2.
The official statement of Cricket Australia
"The entire playing group and all other support staff have undertaken Rapid Antigen Tests this morning and all have tested negative," a Cricket Australia release said. "The England Cricket team will also have PCR tests today, and both teams will take extra precautions throughout play. Both playing squads remain unchanged. There is currently no further impact on fans or other parts of the venue."
Here are the key details
The play on Day 2 was delayed (30 minutes) as the England squad underwent testing. The MCG Test will continue as scheduled after all players tested COVID-19 negative. Notably, all members of England's touring party will undergo a full round of PCR testing on Monday.
Hockley believes the match will not be impacted
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley believes the match will not be impacted. "They'll go undergo PCR tests. We'll work on the basis of all the available information that we have. But certainly the medical advisers, on the basis of this morning's precaution, they felt it appropriate to continue with the match," Hockley spoke after play began on Day 2.
Ashes: A look at other similar cases
Australian captain Pat Cummins was ruled out of the second Test in Adelaide after coming in close contact with a COVID-19 positive case. Steven Smith had replaced him as captain for the Test. Meanwhile, Australian television broadcaster Channel Seven had to replace their commentary team in the MCG Test. It was reported that one of their team members had returned a positive COVID-19 test.
