Ind vs Eng: Sourav Ganguly Backs Rishabh Pant, Says 'Impossible To Wear Mask All Time'

After testing Covid-19 positive, fans on social media lashed out at Pant for showing carelessness and putting his health at risk.

Photo: AFP

BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has backed India's wicket-keeper batsman Rishabh Pant, who recently tested Coronavirus positive during the 20-day break from the bio-bubble. Ganguly, in an exclusive interview with News18, said 'Pant was on a leave and it is physically impossible to keep wearing a mask all the time'.

Team India players have been living inside biobubble for a long time, hence, to help them overcome bio-bubble fatigue, BCCI had given the players a 20-day break and allowed them to spend some quality time with their families.

Watch | IND vs ENG: India To Face Wicket-Keeper Crisis After Pant & Saha Turn Covid-19 Positive

During the 20-day break when the Indian cricket team was vacationing, Pant had visited a packed Wembley Arena to watch the football match between European championship heavyweights England and Germany in the UEFA Euro 2020.

It is believed that the wicket-keeper batsman got infected with this virus during that time. After testing Covid-19 positive, fans on social media lashed out at Pant for showing such carelessness and putting his health at risk.

When Ganguly was asked whether he was worried about Team India before the start of the Test series, he categorically denied it. The former captain said, "No worries.  They will be fine." Apart from Pant, net bowler Dayanand Jarani has also tested positive for Coronavirus.

Meanwhile, ECB has announced the County Select XI squad for the practice match against India. Warwickshire captain Will Rhodes has been given the command of the team. Virat Kohli-led India, after WTC Final loss to New Zealand, will aim to find its rhythm during the three-day practice match.