Covid-Positive Players Allowed To Play T20 WC, No Isolation Or Regular Testing Required: Report

As per the latest ICC rules, if a player tests Coronavirus positive, there will be no mandatory test for him during the tournament nor will he have to be in isolation.

Michelle Enright, CEO at ICC T20 World Cup Australia speaks to media during the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup Trophy Tour at GMHBA Stadium on October 13, 2022 in Geelong, Australia. (Getty Images)

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New Delhi: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly made some big changes to rules regarding 'playing conditions' for 'Covid-positive players' in the Men's T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. As per latest ICC playing conditions, players will be allowed to play even after testing positive for Coronavirus if cleared by the team doctor, cricket.com.au reported. Also, the team can replace a Covid-positive player in case he doesn't get the required mandatory clearance from team doctor.

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As per the report, if a player tests Coronavirus positive, there won't be any regular testing for him during the tournament nor will he have to be in isolation. Earlier, a Covid-positive player had to take several Covid tests and was asked to isolate. ICC most likely made changes to rules regarding 'playing conditions' as rapid vaccination programs across the world has helped in improving Covid-19 situation.

During the Women's T20 International final between India and Australia at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham, Australian women cricketer Tahlia McGrath was allowed to play by the ICC despite testing Covid positive ahead of the match. Organizers in UK dealt with the situation on a case-by-case basis during the event. McGrath was seen sitting separately from rest of her teammates with a mask on. But she later celebrated Australia's historic Gold medal win with the entire team. Fans might witness a similar thing during T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia.

Talking about India's schedule in the T20 World Cup 2022, the Men in Blue will play its first match against Pakistan on 23rd October. Before match against PAK, India will play two warm-up matches, first against Australia on October 17 at Gabba Stadium in Brisbane and second against New Zealand on October 19.