Spectators were observed sitting in an English stadium for the first time since March when Surrey took on Middlesex in a pre-season two-day friendly game at The Oval on Sunday (July 26). 

The fans were allowed in to test the prevention measures amid COVID-19 pandemic, as the authorities plan for a wider reopening of sporting grounds in October. 

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Advisory signs were on show for the friendly match being watched by 1,000 people, sitting across two stands in alternate rows, with a two-seat gap between family groups of a maximum of six. 

According to a report by Associated Press, "a limited number of members were in assigned seats in the stadium in south London." 

"Surrey chief executive Richard Gould said the club received 10,000 calls for the available places within an hour of the tickets being made available to members."

Gould further said: "the sun is shining, cricket is taking place and people look happy. I hope it's not going to be a one-off. I think it depends on how well it goes."

"We've got lots of people here from government and safety authorities, and I think they'll have a look at it and make a judgement and hopefully it can accelerate things if this goes well," he added. 

The match is part of the build-up to the Bob Willis Trophy, to be played for in a rejigged County Championship season, beginning August 1. 

It is understood that spectators will be allowed for the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield on Friday (July 31) as well, with the government pushing for the safe return of fans in sports stadiums. The scheme will also be applicable to the Goodwood horse racing festival on Saturday (August 1). 

(Inputs from AP)