England stays 'vigilant but not concerned' after two hotel staff get COVID-19

The England team on the tour of Sri Lanka has received news that can potentially cause a threat to cricket. The two staff members of the hotel in which the Joe Root-led team is staying have been tested positive for COVID-19. There have been uprising cases of COVID in the country, and this could further make the rules of quarantine stricter. 

However, according to a report published by Cricbuzz, a spokesperson of the England cricket team has assured fans that they are staying strong during these tough times. The spokesperson has also clarified that the team has maintained protocol brilliantly which is why they have nothing to be concerned about.  

We remain vigilant and respectful of the Sri Lankan authorities: England spokesperson

“We are not concerned. Our protocols have been excellent and we continue to be vigilant,” a spokesperson of the England cricket team was quoted. “We are the most compliant team in world cricket. We are the only international team in any sport to have a COVID compliance officer. He is responsible for ensuring we meet the highest of standards across our COVID protocols.”

The spokesperson also said that the team has been respectful towards the Sri Lanka officials and tried their best to follow all the rules and stay safe.

“We remain vigilant and respectful of the Sri Lankan authorities and we will do everything that is possible to keep our players and the general population safe,” he added. 

Moeen Ali in a separate hotel trying to recover

Moeen Ali, the England all-rounder was tested positive upon his arrival in Sri Lanka, something had jolted the team. The spokesperson also gave an update on his health and how he has been taken care of. Ali is almost certain to miss even the second Test, which will be played in Galle itself. 

“Moeen Ali, who tested positive when we arrived in Sri Lanka, has been isolating for 12 days in separate accommodation. He remains isolated at a different hotel to the team in Galle,” the spokesperson said. “He continues to receive care from Sri Lanka and England medical teams and will return to the squad as soon as it is safe to do so. We have yet to be given a date of when this will be.”

The English team has not put a foot wrong when it comes to performance. After losing the toss and being put into bowl first, the visitors bowled out the Sri Lankans for a mere 135. At stumps on day two, the team found themselves with a lead of 185 runs with six wickets still remaining in their first innings. Skipper Root stayed unbeaten on 168 along with Jos Butler who had arrived little before the end of the day’s play.