Reports: Sri Lanka government green signals India series after players test Covid-19 negative

India and Sri Lanka were set to lock horns against each other for three ODIs and as many T20Is starting from July 13. However, after Covid-19 hit the Sri Lanka team’s camp, the series was pushed forward. It is now thus confirmed by the Sri Lanka government that the series will commence from July 18.

Sri Lanka’s batting coach Grant Flower and data analyst GT Niroshan had returned positive for Covid-19 after their arrival from England. This forced the boards to make tweaks in the schedule of the matches. Thus, now the Sri Lankan government has given a green signal for the start of the series after those in contact with Flower and Niroshan came back negative in the latest RT-PCR test.

In these tough times, cricket has been held under strict bio-secure environments and the cricket boards of the countries have to put their thinking hats on to deal with these situations. Last week, the BCCI Secretary, Jay Shah had extended the board’s support to Sri Lanka Cricket in an official statement, considering the uncertainties of these times. He had also asserted his confidence in getting back things in place smoothly and had anticipated an exciting cricket contest between the two nations.

“Our medical team is in constant touch with the team of doctors at SLC and together following all safety protocols that will help the series to get underway. We are confident that both nations will put up a spirited show in the days to come and we are in for some exciting cricket.”

India and Sri Lanka raring up for the challenge

Now that the clearance has been given, the two teams will face each other on July 18 for the first ODI of the series. Shikhar Dhawan will be leading the Indian side and had previously expressed his excitement for the job. With a good mix of young and experienced players, the team combination to take the charge of the field is highly awaited.

Sri Lanka, who are coming after a dismaying series against England, would have to make serious tweaks to right the wrongs. The big task in front of them is to leave behind the trauma of the last series and emerge fresh and strong against India.