South Africa v England ODI series called off after Covid-19 positive tests

England’s cricket tour of South Africa has been called off after a Covid-19 outbreak.

South Africa v England three match ODI series has been postponed after a number of a positive coronavirus tests.

The first one-day international in Cape Town last Friday was postponed after a member of the South Africa squad tested positive for Covid-19.

As per latest reports  one player of Proteas and two staff while two members of English party returned “unconfirmed positive tests”.

The official statement issued on Monday said that the tour was called off to “ensure the mental and physical health and welfare of players”.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Cricket South Africa (CSA) said that they will look to reschedule the ODIs, which form part of the International Cricket Council Super League.

ECB chief executive Tom Harrison said: “We have always maintained that the welfare of our players and management is paramount.

“We were concerned about the potential impact that recent developments might have on the wellbeing of the touring party, and so after consultation with Cricket South Africa, we have jointly made the decision to postpone the remaining matches in this series, in the best interest of the players’ welfare.”

“I would like to thank Cricket South Africa for their support and understanding on this matter and look forward to working with them to identify a time when we can return to play these fixtures in the future.

Cricket South Africa’s acting CEO, Kugandrie Govender, in a statement  said: “The concern over the mental health impact of recent events on all involved is not one that we as CSA or the ECB take lightly, and the decision to postpone the tour is the most responsible and reasonable course of action for us.”