Shakib tests positive for COVID-19
Shakib Al Hasan will miss the first Test against Sri Lanka after testing positive for COVID-19. Shakib was supposed to join the squad on his return from the USA, but he returned positive in the RT-PCR test, and was sent home. He will now have to undergo self-isolation for five days.
'Shakib tested COVID positive and will not be available for the opening Test against Sri Lanka,' Jalal Yunus, BCB's cricket operation chair, told Cricbuzz.
Graham Thorpe admitted to hospital
Former England cricketer and coach Graham Thorpe has fallen 'seriously ill' and is receiving treatment in the hospital, as confirmed by the Professional Cricketers' Association (PCA). Thorpe played exactly 100 Test matches for England between 1993 and 2005, averaging 44.66 with 16 centuries. He was recently announced as the new head coach of Afghanistan.
'Graham Thorpe has recently fallen seriously ill and is currently in hospital receiving treatment. His prognosis is unclear at this stage and we ask for privacy for him and his family at this time. Our thoughts are with Graham and his family,' a statement from the PCA, issued at the request of Thorpe's family, read.
Cricket South Africa gives clean chit to Mark Boucher
Cricket South Africa (CSA) has absolved former player and the head coach Mark Boucher of racism charges. This came just a day after Graeme Smith was given a clean chit.
'(Paul) Adams recently announced that he had withdrawn from testifying against Boucher during the disciplinary hearing. In doing so, Adams stated that his concerns articulated during the SJN process were about the overall 'culture' in the Proteas team during the early 2000s, rather than being about any particular player,' read a statement from CSA.
Nicholls doubtful for England Tests
New Zealand suffered a massive blow just ahead of their tour to England when their middle-order batter Henry Nicholls suffered a calf injury that could rule him out of the series. Nicholls sustained an injury during pre-tour camp in Mount Maunganui.
'He's having an MRI scan later today (Tuesday), so we'll know more after that as to the extent of it,' said Stead. 'But he's got it strapped up and I guess the next 24 to 48 hours will give us an indication of how serious that is.'