SA vs ENG: A second South African player tests Covid-19 positive

Another South African cricketer has tested positive for coronavirus, Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed on Friday (November 20). South Africa are set to take on England in a T20I series starting November 27 at Cape Town.

This comes only a few days after three Protea players were isolated following the first Covid-19 case in the camp. The identity of the said player has been kept under wraps for confidentiality purposes, with the player separated and in isolation from the rest of the squad. CSA’s medical and support staff will ensure the player is looked after from a physical and mental well-being perspective.

“Team management and Cricket South Africa (CSA) are in close communication with their counterparts from the England Cricket Board (ECB) to ensure full transparency and the most responsible plan of action going forward,” CSA’s media release stated.

The South African cricket team was supposed to play an inter-squad practice match on Saturday (November 21). However, that fixture now stands cancelled, with CSA also releasing the two back-up players included for practice preparations.

Meanwhile, England are scheduled to play their inter-squad match on Saturday. All of their players have returned negative Covid-19 results so far. The three-match T20I series will be followed by three ODIs.