AUSTRALIA V INDIA, 2020-21
“We speak with our counterparts at BCCI on a daily basis. We have received nothing formal from BCCI to suggest anything other than their support” – Hockley © Getty
Amid all the reports that India is reluctant to travel to Brisbane due to stricter quarantine protocols, Nick Hockley, CEO of Cricket Australia, cleared the air saying that nothing “formal” has come from BCCI regarding his apprehension. to play the fourth and last test in the Gabba.
“We speak with our counterparts at BCCI on a daily basis. We have not received anything formal from BCCI to suggest anything other than their support,” Hockley said on Monday (January 4). “Both teams have wanted to play the schedule as we have set it,” suggesting that as it stands the series should continue as its previous schedule with the third round in Sydney followed by the final in Brisbane.
Previously, considering the increase in COVID-19 cases in New South Wales, there was uncertainty as to whether or not the third Test would be played in Sydney. Finally, it was decided to continue with a reduction in the number of spectators to 25% of capacity and with strict measures of social distancing.
“In response to the public health situation in New South Wales, we are working closely with Venues NSW and NSW Health to implement the appropriate biosecurity measures for our staff, players, match officials, announcers and fans to ensure that we played the third round at SCG safely, “said Hockley. “Reducing venue capacity is crucial to achieving social distancing requirements, and we sincerely thank ticket holders for their patience, as we process refunds today, we reconfigure SCG’s seating plan to implement these social distancing measures and re- the sale . ”
However, the sudden increase in cases has forced Queensland to close its border with Greater Sydney. And although there is an agreement to allow both parties to fly to Brisbane for the final test, it is not yet known how strict the restrictions would be for them. Both India and Australia, their support staff and party officials tested negative for Covid-19 on Monday before traveling from Melbourne to Sydney.
The third test is scheduled to begin on Thursday (January 7).
© Cricbuzz
