The first ODI between South Africa and England has been called off amid growing concerns of COVID-19 in the Protean nation. All three games being called off is more than a possibility now. Two members of staff where both squads are staying were found to have contracted Covid-19, prompting England to re-test their party on Saturday evening.

The game was postponed after a player from the Protean camp tested Covid positive. Cricket South Africa (CSA) confirmed the news on their official Twitter handle as well.

Paarl ODI Between South Africa & England Called Off

Meanwhile, the game was rescheduled to be played today in Paarl which now has been officially called off. The game was scheduled to start at 10 am. Neither of the teams reached the Paarl stadium. Later, the board officials said that the game would be delayed. Finally, with less than 30 minutes to the start of play, the game was called off.

“Whilst the ECB awaits ratification of those test results the decision has been taken to delay the start of today’s ODI match,” statements from CSA and the ECB on Sunday said before the abandonment was confirmed.

Previously three players from the South African camp had tested Covid positive. According to CSA, the third player was discovered to be COVID-19 positive when the players were tested prior to the 1st ODI between the two sides. The cricket board confirmed on Twitter that a player has been tested positive because of which why for the safety of other members in the side the two cricket boards have jointly decided to postpone the first ODI.

Cricket South Africa and the @englandcricket have agreed to delay the start time for today’s One-Day International match, which is due to take place in Paarl. #SAvENG #BetwayODI pic.twitter.com/8JNGvyLlhL

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) December 6, 2020

The first game was supposed to be played today, while the second and third on December 7 and 9 respectively. Cricket South Africa decided to keep the names of the COVID-affected players to themselves.

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