Kane Richardson tested for coronavirus after reporting illness
Australian fast bowler Kane Richardson has been quarantined and tested for the novel coronavirus ahead of the first ODI against New Zealand. Richardson, who returned from South Africa with the ODI squad this week, was isolated after developing a sore throat. The three-match ODI series between Australia and New Zealand will be played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus outburst. Here is more.
"Our medical staff are treating this as a typical throat infection but we are following Australian government protocols that require us to keep Kane away from other members of the squad and perform the appropriate tests," a Cricket Australia spokesperson said.
Cricket Australia's medical team has been in constant dialogue with the experts regarding the disease, of late. Reportedly, the upcoming games will be played in the presence of broadcasters and accredited journalists only. No family or friends will be allowed in the ground during the match. Besides, Kane will only join the Australian squad depending upon the result of his tests.
Quite a few sporting events around the globe have been suspended, owing to the coronavirus scare. NBA has suspended game play starting March 12 after a Utah Jazz player preliminarily tested positive for COVID-19. UEFA Champions League and Europa League have also been forced to schedule the matches behind close doors. In tennis, the prestigious ATP and WTA Indian Wells got cancelled.
The first ODI between Australia and New Zealand is being played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. SCG will also host the second ODI on March 15, while the final ODI is scheduled at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on March 20. The two teams will then battle it out in the three-match T20I series in New Zealand, starting March 24.
