Despite the ICC match referee – Phil Whitticase – for the third T20I between England and Sri Lanka being tested positive for Covid-19, the ODI series between the two teams will be held as per schedule with ‘alternative arrangements’.
Issuing a statement, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said that all those who were in close contact with Whitticase will be tested for the virus.
“Following a PCR test administered on Friday 25 June at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton, The England and Wales Cricket Board can confirm that ICC Match Referee Phil Whitticase has tested positive for COVID-19,” ECB said in a statement.
Whitticase will now serve a 10-days of self-isolation period from June 25, in accordance with the UK Government’s protocol on quarantine.
“Whitticase, who was officiating during the three-match Vitality IT20 Series between England and Sri Lanka, is well and is asymptomatic,” the statement added.
“Those impacted will have to self-isolate for 10-days until 7 July. No members of the two teams were impacted. Alternative arrangements will be put in place to ensure Tuesday’s ODI goes ahead as planned,” ECB further added.
England had whitewashed the islanders 3-0 in three-match T20I series.