Visitors England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the hosts Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are in a conversation with each other ahead of the Pak vs Eng first test since almost 14 English visitors have contacted virus.
Since many players have fallen ill, it has been reported that the two boards will altogether settle on a mutual decision. Whatever will be decided will be announced shortly. While there is the likelihood of the first Test being postponed, ex-England skipper Joe Root, in his press conference, denied the claims of players getting COVID or any serious illness.
Notably, only five-six English players could take part in the recently-held optional training sessions, and the rest are affected by the virus. The list of fallen ill players also includes skipper Ben Stokes as Root conducted a conference of captain in his place of him.
Moreover, it should be noted that the two boards will only delay the first test in case of the 'worst possible scenario'.
It is pertinent to mention here that the conditions are evaluated on behalf of data provided by the board's medical team. The decision will also be taken considering the situation.
It is to note that the trophy unveiling ceremony,w scheduled to take place on November 30th, will also take place just before the first match, scheduled for December 1st.
According to a source, the PCB has narrated,
"The PCB and ECB are in discussions regarding the commencement of the 1st Pak vs Eng 1st Test as some England players are down with viral infections. The PCB continues to monitor the situation, is in contact with the ECB and will provide further updates in due course."
