Prior to the third day's play of the first Test match between Australia and Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium here on Friday, star cricketer Angelo Mathews of Sri Lanka tested positive for Covid-19.
Oshada Fernando, a player who has been brought in as a "authorised like-for-like Covid replacement," has taken the position of 35-year-old Mathews, who scored 39 in Sri Lanka's 212-run first innings total.
According to reports, the all-rounder reported Covid-19 symptoms to the Sri Lankan camp on Friday morning and was isolated in accordance with protocol.
An SLC statement read, "Angelo Mathews tested positive for Covid-19." "A Rapid Anti-Gen test done on the athlete yesterday revealed that he was positive. The player was not feeling well, therefore the test was terminated. He is now isolated from the rest of the team and is adhering to Covid-19 guidelines as a result."
Since the confirmation of Mathews' case, the remainder of Sri Lanka's team has not been tested. Players could only be evaluated under the protocols if they displayed symptoms. The first case on the tour is Mathews'.
After his colleagues bowled Australia out for 321 early in Friday's morning session, Oshada Fernando will probably be in the middle of things on day three.
After Ramesh Mendis' 112/4 score, Asitha Fernando cleaned out the tail, leaving the hosts 109 runs in the hole at the conclusion of Australia's first innings.
It's uncertain how Mathews will continue to play in the series after the second Test, which starts on July 8.
Due to the infection, Australia's coach Andrew McDonald missed the tour's opening match and arrived in Sri Lanka after its conclusion.
Australia's athletes have been undergoing daily quick antigen tests on days when there are no matches, in addition to being checked during games if they feel ill.
On those days, they are also tested before leaving the hotel, and they are only allowed to leave the setup once security has confirmed there has been no close contact with others.