T20 World Cup 2022: Australia’s Matthew Wade tests Covid positive but expected to play against England

Adam Zampa tested negative for Covid-19 and expected to play against England.

After Adam Zampa missed a game in the aftermath of testing positive for Covid-19, Australia now faces a fresh challenge, as their only specialist wicketkeeper Matthew Wade has tested positive for the virus ahead of their match against England in the T20 World Cup 2022.

Wade is believed to be suffering only minor symptoms and, unless his condition deteriorates, is still expected to feature in Friday's high-stakes match against England at the MCG. Australia had Josh Inglis in their side as the backup keeper, but he suffered a hand injury while playing golf and was replaced in the squad by Cameron Green.

There was some intrigue at Australia's training session at the Junction Oval indoor nets on Thursday afternoon when Glenn Maxwell put wicketkeeping gloves on and did drills with assistant coach Andre Borovec, a former first-grade gloveman.

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Captain Aaron Finch had previously suggested that if the need arose, David Warner would likely stand in behind the stumps in Wade's absence.

World Cup rules permit players who have tested positive to continue playing. But Wade will have to travel separately to the ground and will not be able to use the team changeroom prior to or during the game.

On the other hand, Adam Zampa tested negative for the virus and will be available to play in the game against England.

Australia lost to New Zealand in their first match and then defeated Sri Lanka in their next match.

(cricket.com.au inputs)