Johannesburg, Nov 26th : , The Netherlands could cancel its ongoing ODI series for South Africa in light of concerns about the spread of a new Covid-19 variant in the country. The first of three ODIs was in progress in Centurion.
When the boards announced that a decision would be made “in the next 24 to48 hours”, they said that the boards were preparing for an official announcement.
Initial indications were that the Dutch team had decided to return home after meeting with Cricket South Africa (CSA).
However, it was discovered that the Netherlands team could not fly out of South Africa until December 3, prompting further discussions.
“Both boards can confirm, following updated information that it is highly unlikely that a visiting team will fly out of South Africa over weekend,” CSA stated in an official statement.
“The KNCB [Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond] will be reviewing all options and prioritising the mental and physical well-being its players.It said that a decision on continuation of the series would be made within the next 24 to 48 hour, while all flight options will be considered.”
Notably, South Africa was added to the UK’s redlist.Travel restrictions from Italy, Germany and Singapore are also in effect.Other countries are expected to follow.
The Dutch players will likely spend time in quarantine upon their return to the Netherlands.
Many of the players live and play in the UK.The UK government has instituted a mandatory, self-funded hotel quarantine and banned non-residents from the area from entering the country.
The new Covid-19 variant has caused panic around the world and made its presence felt in South Africa last week.In South Africa, the fourth wave of the pandemic will also peak in the coming weeks.
This will coincide with the busy summer cricket schedule.
Bad weather forced the cancellation of Friday’s first ODI in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Super League series, which was between South Africa and Netherlands.
After South Africa had set a target for 278 for the Netherlands in Centurion, rain played spoilsport and only two innings of second-innings action was possible.The chase began for the Netherlands, who were at 11/0 when it started to rain.
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