Ashes 2021-22: England’s Chris Silverwood tests COVID positive; Graham Thorpe to take-over head coach duties

Silverwood expected to return back for fifth Test in Hobart.

England head coach Chris Silverwood has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus, while he was isolated with his family in Melbourne after a family member had tested positive for the virus a couple of days back.

Silverwood was already due to miss the fourth Ashes Test in Sydney having entered a 10-day quarantine after the COVID outbreak in England camp. Pace bowling coach Jon Lewis, spin mentor Jeetan Patel, and strength and conditioning specialist Darren Veness have also tested positive.

Assistant coach Graham Thorpe will now take over head coach duties for the fourth Test of the Ashes 2021-22 to be played in Sydney from January 5.

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"England men's head coach Chris Silverwood has tested positive for Covid-19. Silverwood has been isolating in Melbourne since December 30 following a positive test from one of his family members. He will remain in isolation until January 8. Silverwood is asymptomatic and is fully vaccinated,” a statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board read as reported by SkySports.

It was further stated that Silverwood is expected to return to the England party in Hobart ahead of the fifth Ashes Test.

Australia has already retained the Ashes after gaining an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series, with wins in Brisbane, Adelaide, and Melbourne.

(ANI inputs)