Picture Credit: Twitter
New Zealand batter Mark Chapman has tested positive for COVID-19 during their ongoing series against the Netherlands. However, the New Zealand Cricket has announced his replacement. The two sides are set to play three-match ODI series, starting March 29 at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.
Notably, Chapman woke up with the symptoms on Sunday morning in Auckland with symptoms after returning home on Saturday from Napier, where he was with T20 squad. He subsequently took a Rapid Antigen Test in Auckland and was confirmed to have contracted the virus.
The New Zealand coach, Gary Stead confirmed the news and said, "It's really unfortunate for Mark and we're all really feeling for him at this time. He did the right thing in following the health guidelines and getting tested when he did", confirmed New Zealand coach Gary Stead.
However, the rest of the Kiwi team has reached Mt Maunganui for the Netherlands ODI series with other players and staff testing negative for the COVID-19.
George Worker to replace Chapman in NZ squad
George Worker from Auckland has been called up as Chapman’s replacement in the ODI squad. He is said to join ahead of training on Monday. Notably, Worker last played an ODI for New Zealand in 2018.
While speaking about Worker’s call up, Stead expressed that this opportunity was well deserved. He was quoted saying, “It’s an exciting time for George to be back with the Black Caps. He thoroughly deserves his call-up following his strong form in the Ford Trophy.”
The 32-year-old has scored 672 runs with an average of 84 with four centuries.