COVID-19 continues to impact cricket as New Zealand’s three-match T20I series against Australia, scheduled for next month, has been cancelled because of border regulations.

The Trans-Tasman rivals were expected to play in Napier from March 17-20, hoping that the border protocols will be relaxed.

However, the arrival of the omicron variant in New Zealand has put back the re-opening of the international border and the series can’t be held since the Australian men’s team does not have places reserved in managed isolation.

“At the time we scheduled the visit there was a lot of hope that the trans-Tasman border would be open for those who met the right criteria,” New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said in a statement on Wednesday (February 9).

“However, the advent of omicron has, unfortunately, changed everything at the border and has made it impossible for us to continue with the series.

“It’s disappointing but we know it’s the same for businesses and individuals and other sports and we’re grateful for the international schedule we have.”

After the conclusion of the Ashes 2021-22, the Australian men’s team has been out of action. Their next assignment is a five-T20I series against Sri Lanka, starting February 11.

On the other hand, the Kiwis are due to host South Africa for a two-Test series, starting February 17 in Christchurch.

(With AP inputs)