The Big Bash League has been thrown into chaos with 11 players from Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder returning positive COVID-19 test results.
After last night’s game between Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars was postponed due to a member of the Stars support team testing positive for the virus, more matches appear in doubt as case numbers in the competition surge.
The Thunder are preparing to meet the Strikers in Adelaide for tonight’s annual New Year’s Eve clash, however after reporting four cases today, the clash will now proceed under strict protocols.
READ MORE: Cricket legend David Boon positive for COVID-19
READ MORE: Bailey opens door for Swepson selection
READ MORE: Barcelona devastated by COVID cases
The positive Thunder players are thought to be Alex Hales, Alex Ross, Tanveer Sangha and Sam Whiteman. The remainder of the squad have returned negative PCR tests and are able to play.
To cope with player shortages and permit a full team to be fielded, Fox Cricket understands the Thunder have added allrounder Arjun Nair and batsman Lachlan Hearne to their roster for this evenings match.
Level 5 protocols are set to be enforced to separate the visitors from each other, as well as the Strikers.
In bizarre scenes, this will include Thunder players being unable to touch one another when celebrating a wicket.
Following PCR testing yesterday, the Melbourne Stars have since confirmed another seven players and eight support staff have returned a positive result.
It is unknown who has been infected, but all players and staff members who tested positive are currently isolating for seven days. All players who tested negative yesterday will undertake another PCR test tomorrow.
The Stars’ next match against Perth Scorchers is set to take place on January 2, however the game also appears unlikely unless serious restrictions and protocols are enforced.
Both clubs said they are working with Cricket Australia in relation to their immediate fixtures, while the Thunder are also seeking advice from SA Health ahead of tonight’s upcoming match.
https://twitter.com/BBL/status/1476804105351794691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
“First and foremost, we wish everyone affected by this outbreak a quick and speedy recovery,” Stars general manager Blair Crouch said.
“The health and safety of our players and staff will continue to be our priority, especially with the challenges the new Omicron variant presents.
“We are providing all the support we can to players, staff and their families. I’d like to thank the medical teams at both Cricket Victoria and Cricket Australia for their ongoing guidance and support.”
Domestic and international cricket in Australia continues to be challenged by COVID-19, with Aussie middle-order batter Travis Head testing positive earlier today, ruling him out of the upcoming fourth Ashes Test in Sydney.
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!