ZCZC
BSP-04
CRICKET-IND-ENG
First two India-England Tests to be played in empty stadiums
NEW DELHI, Jan 23, 2021 (BSS/AFP) – India and England’s first two Tests in
Chennai next month will be played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus
pandemic, according to the local state cricket board.
The two matches from February 5 and February 22 will happen “BEHIND CLOSED
DOORS (No Spectators/Guests/Sub-Committee Members) as a preventive measure”,
according to a directive from the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association seen by AFP.
The third and fourth Tests are due to be played in the western city of
Ahmedabad — at the world’s biggest cricket stadium — from February 24 and
March 4 respectively.
Authorities there have yet to decide whether those matches — the third
Test is a day-night match — will also be played behind closed doors.
India has seen the world’s second-highest number of coronavirus infections
but the rate of new cases has slowed sharply in recent months, and most
economic activity is returning to normal.
The series between India and England will be key to deciding the two
finalists of the inaugural world Test championship.
India, the world’s top Test nation after their stunning recent series win
away in Australia, are virtually assured of a place in the final at Lord’s in
June.
England are fourth in the Test championship table behind New Zealand and
Australia. They are currently in Sri Lanka playing the second and final Test
in Galle.
BSS/AFP/SSS/1102 hrs