New Delhi: After several rounds of discussion, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) jointly decided to cancel India vs England 5th Test, slated to be played at Manchester in ongoing India vs England Test series 2021.
The decision to call off the Old Trafford Test Match was taken due to Covid-19 outbreak in the Indian cricket team contingent. Both the boards have maintained that well-being and safety of players is most important.
Now, BCCI has offered to ECB a rescheduling of the cancelled Ind vs Eng fifth and final Test match.
"In lieu of the strong relationship between BCCI and ECB, the BCCI has offered to ECB a rescheduling of the cancelled Test match. Both the Boards will work towards finding a window to reschedule this Test match," BCCI said in a press release.
"Due to fears of a further increase in the number of COVID cases inside the camp, India are regrettably unable to field a team," read the revised England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) statement, as per PTI.
A COVID-related quarantine would have meant missing out on IPL matches, starting September 19.
"Following ongoing conversations with the BCCI, the ECB can confirm that the fifth LV= Insurance Test between England and India Men due to start today at Emirates Old Trafford, will be cancelled," the ECB stated.
"We send our sincere apologies to fans and partners for this news, which we know will cause immense disappointment and inconvenience to many," it added.