WI vs IRE: Simi Singh, Ben White ruled out of first ODI after testing COVID-19 positive, PCR results awaited

West Indies host Ireland in the opening ODI of the three-match series on Saturday (January 8). The encounter takes place at the Sabina Park in Kingston and both teams would be raring to make a significant mark. However, the Irish team took the field without the services of two of their main players, Simi Singh and Ben White. The duo tested positive last night for COVID infection via a routine antigen test and are awaiting PCR tests.

The opening fixture wasn’t harmed as the rest of the Ireland Men’s playing and coaching squad returned with negative COVID-19 results. Cricket Ireland stated the same in an official statement and it remains to be seen how their absence would hamper Ireland chances in the game.

Simi Singh and Ben White are awaiting results of PCR tests

“Simi Singh and Ben White are awaiting results of PCR tests after testing positive last night for COVID infection via a routine antigen test. Both players have been isolated and are out of today’s first ODI against West Indies. The rest of the Ireland Men’s playing and coaching squad had antigen tests last night and this morning, with all coming back negative,” stated Cricket Ireland in a official statement.

It was also mentioned that the duo has undergone isolation and their participation in upcoming fixtures would depend upon their tests. “Singh and White remain in good spirits, albeit in isolation awaiting the results of their PCR tests. The game will proceed as scheduled, and an update of Singh and White’s PCR tests will be communicated later today,” the statement read further.

Meanwhile, Ireland won the toss in the opening ODI and opted to bowl. Hence, they would like to restrict the hosts to a mediocre total.

West Indies Playing XI: Shai Hope, Justin Greaves, Nicholas Pooran (wk), Shamarh Brooks, Kieron Pollard (c), Roston Chase, Jason Holder, Romario Shepherd, Odean Smith, Alzarri Joseph, Akeal Hosein

Ireland Playing XI: William Porterfield, Andrew Balbirnie (c), Harry Tector, Gareth Delany, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Andy McBrine, Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Craig Young, Joshua Little