Afghanistan-Ireland ODI series is scheduled to start on January 21.
The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) suspended the final One Day International (ODI) of the four-match ODI series between the United Arab Emirates and Ireland after UAE public health directives did not permit a resumption of competitive cricket due to the COVID-19 outbreak at the hosts’ camp.
The ODI series began according to schedule on January 8, but was hit after Chirag Suri and Aryan Lakra tested positive for COVID-19 followed by few other players over the next few days, leading to the postponement of the two ODIs and now the final ODI too.
ECB said in a statement: “Emirates Cricket Board confirms that tomorrow’s match in the Sky247.net Abu Dhabi ODI Series 2021 against Ireland has been suspended. Discussions are underway with all parties regarding a final ODI match between the UAE and Ireland being played early in the coming week.”
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Meanwhile, Richard Holdsworth, High-Performance Director for Cricket Ireland said: “Frustratingly the wait goes on to resume competitive action, however, we fully accept the rationale for the government health directive, and the health and safety of players and support staff will remain CI’s top priority.”
Notably, Ireland will remain in the UAE to play three ODIs against Afghanistan with the first of those scheduled for January 21 and Cricket Ireland is hoping to get clearance to play the series there.
Holdsworth further noted: “With the Afghanistan series due to start next Thursday, the players and coaches are keen to get at least another competitive fixture in against the UAE prior to that, so we are hoping that a continued clean bill of health in both camps will allow us to play on Monday. The players will head out for a centre wicket practice tomorrow.”
He signed off, “We share the frustrations of fans who were hoping to see a great series with our hosts, but we acknowledge the work of the Emirates Cricket Board in trying to recover what we can of the series given difficult circumstances. We will keep fans updated as circumstances evolve.”
(With AFP Inputs)