England and South Africa on Monday (December 7) agreed to postpone the three-match ODI series which was scheduled to start on December 4, before two members in the England touring party tested positive for COVID-19, forcing the series to be delayed and eventually postponed.

"Cricket South Africa (CSA) and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have agreed to postpone the remaining matches in the current Betway One-Day International (ODI) Series," a joint statement said.

"The decision was taken jointly by the two Boards to ensure the mental and physical health and welfare of players from both teams."

The decision to call off the tour followed possible breaches of the bio-secure environment at the hotel in Cape Town where both teams are staying.

A South African player had tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday. Two hotel staff members then tested positive before two members of the England touring party returned what were described as “unconfirmed positive tests” on Sunday.

England won the three-match T20I series 3-0 and will now return home.

(With AFP inputs)