In a move aimed to provide more time for the Sri Lanka National Players and the Support Staff to complete the required health protocols before getting onto the field, following the detection of two members (Batting Coach and Data Analyst) of the National Squad as Covid Positive, the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) in consultation with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday decided to reschedule the dates of the upcoming ODI and T20I series.
Accordingly, the series, which was to start on the July 13, will now be held from July 18, five day later.
While the second and third ODI will now be held on July 20 amd 23, the three-match T20I series will be staged on July 25, 27 and 29.
All the six matches will be hosted at the RPICS in Colombo.
Commenting on the changed schedule, Jay Shah, Honorary Secretary, BCCI, said: “We understand that circumstances are extraordinary, but the BCCI would like to extend its full support to Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) during these tough times for the smooth conduct of the upcoming series. 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.”
Commenting on the BCCI’s cooperation in this regard, Ashley De Silva, CEO of Sri Lanka Cricket said: ‘We are grateful for the BCCI for understanding the situation and agreeing to cooperate with us at this moment of time, as it has done on numerous occasions, during our long-standing relationship.’
He also said the rescheduling of the series was a measure taken to ensure the safety of the players, officials, and the continuity of the tour.