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The New Zealand Test team has encountered a kind of mini COVID-19 outbreak ahead of the 3rd Test against England. After Michael Bracewell, Devon Conway has also returned with a positive COVID-19 report. The New Zealand Cricket board confirmed the news through a statement on Thursday. Notably, Conway has started his five days of isolation.
“BLACKCAPS batter Devon Conway has tested positive for Covid-19 and has begun five days of isolation. Conway undertook a PCR test on arrival in London on Wednesday evening in preparation for a team activity. He joins all-rounder Michael Bracewell and support staff personnel Vijay Vallabh (physio) and Chris Donaldson (strength & conditioning) as members of the tour party to have tested positive on Wednesday,” said NZC in a statement.
“The three will travel separately from the team to Leeds on Sunday and providing they recover as expected will be able to join the team for training at Headingley on Tuesday, ahead of Thursday’s final Test,” it added.
No replacements sought!
The cricket board further clarified that there will be no replacements in the current squad. It also confirmed that the rest of the players have come out with a negative report.
“The rest of the touring party have returned negative results and will continue following the tour health protocols of symptom reporting and subsequent testing if required. No replacements player are being sorted at this stage,” said NZC in its statement.
Notably, New Zealand have already lost the three-match Test series as England won both the Tests. It was record chase by England on the fifth day of the second Test. The Ben Stokes-led team scored 299 in their fourth innings on the final day to win the match. Jonny Bairstow was the star for England with his 136 off just 92 deliveries. Captain Ben Stokes also played a handy knock of 75* off 70 balls.
