CA postpones two WNCL fixtures amid border restrictions due to COVID-19

The increasing amount of Covid-19 cases around the globe have inculcated precautionary measures by the states of various countries. The Australian government has been strict with its border restrictions which were evident in the lockdown imposed last year as well. The border restrictions between Tasmania and Western Australia have led to the 50-over domestic competition of Women’s National Cricket League dates being adjusted now.

Two games between Tasmania and Western Australia which were originally scheduled in the month of January have now been postponed to March. Both these games were scheduled to take place in the Blundstone area. Apart from the two games, the final of the Women’s National Cricket league has also been shifted from March 6 to March 18 while the remaining fixtures have not been adjusted. Cricket Australia’s Head of cricket operations and scheduling, Peter Roach recently confirmed the changes in a statement.

The safety and wellbeing of players remain the priority: CA

Cricket Australia in a statement did mention the health of the players being considered and the schedule has been revised accordingly. The statement also added about the availability of top players had also been taken into account as the Women’s Ashes starts on January 27. Queensland will start as the defending champions and they are currently at the second position in the points table with 5 points.

“The safety and wellbeing of players, match officials, staff, and fans remain our top priority as we aim to deliver the full 29 game WNCL season.”

“Cricket Australia worked closely with the states and Territories to deliver a revised schedule that has minimal impact on Premier cricket finals, while also allowing the top cricketers in the country to be available for WNCL matches. We thank the states and the Territories for their flexibility and understanding as we navigate scheduling changes,” Peter Roach said in a statement as quoted by Ani News

Here is the revised schedule for the Women’s National Cricket league

March 9, 2022: Tasmania vs Western Australia, Blundstone Arena (originally scheduled on Jan 7)

March 11, 2022: Tasmania vs Western Australia, Blundstone Arena (originally scheduled on Jan 9 )

Final, March 18: TBC vs TBC, (originally scheduled on March 6)