The outbreak of the COVID-19 virus has affected the world severely. It has brought the world to a standstill with many countries being completely lockdown for safety and to contain the spread of the virus. The pandemic spread of the COVID-19 Virus has affected more than 2,560 people in India taking away more than 70 lives. Originated in China, the virus has now affected more than 1,017,560 people taking 53,240 lives. All major sporting events have also been affected as many events are being postponed or canceled. Cricket also suffers from a similar fate as New Zealand and its cricketing schedule is completely haywire right now.
New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White mentioned that the team’s scheduled trips across Europe are unlikely to happen. The Black Caps were expected to travel to Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands.
New Zealand’s tour to the West Indies scheduled for June-July is also expected to be axed. However, there are ” question marks” about the Black Cap’s tour of Bangladesh. The team from the land down under was anticipated to play the subcontinent team in August.
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“Clearly, this situation is extremely disappointing for everyone involved in sport but, given the bigger picture, and the terrible toll COVID-19 is taking worldwide, we need to look after not only our own people but the greater community good,” White said.
David White also confirmed this month’s tour of the Women’s team to Sri Lanka has also been canceled. HE also mentioned about NZC’s initiative of brainstorming every possible chance to resume cricket and consider to examine every other scenario for next season.
“Our current focus is very much on ensuring the future sustainability of cricket in New Zealand,” White mentioned.
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The New Zealand cricket team was playing a 3 match ODI series against Australia back in March. The team had to abandon the tour after the border restrictions were implemented by the NZ government as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of coronavirus.
Kane Williamson’s lead team lost the first match of the series by a heavy margin of 71 runs. The match was played behind closed doors to avoid mass gatherings and combat the spread of the virus. The Black Caps were supposed to play the Second ODI in Sydney but had to fly home immediately.
