The new strain of Coronavirus has put India A’s ongoing tour of South Africa in jeopardy but the BCCI is confident that the tour will go ahead as scheduled.
Speaking to NDTV, BCCI treasurer Arun Dhumal said that the board is keeping a close eye on the situation in South Africa.
During the South Africa tour, India ‘A’ are slated to play two more unofficial Tests. The first four-day Test ended in a draw in Bloemfontein as rain played spoilsport on the final day.
"Yes, the tour is on. We are keeping a close watch," Dhumal said.
COVID variant - B.1.1.529 - has been red-flagged by scientists over an alarmingly high number of spike mutations that might make the virus more resistant to vaccines, increase transmissibility and lead to more severe symptoms.
The new variant was first identified in South Africa earlier this week. It has now started to spread in nearby countries, including Botswana, where fully vaccinated people have been infected. More than 100 people have contracted the new variant in South Africa alone while four have been infected in Botswana.
The remaining two unofficial Tests will also be held in Bloemfontein. While the second match will be played from November 29 to December 2, the third game will start on December 6.
The A tour has been organized ahead of the senior team's series against South Africa. Team India are scheduled to play 3 Tests, 3 ODIs, and 4 T20Is on the upcoming tour to South Africa from December 17 to January 26. They are due to leave for the rainbow nation on December 9.
(With NDTV inputs)
