According to Sri Lankan authorities, on Wednesday, England cricketer Moeen Ali has been contaminated by the brand new UK variant of the coronavirus. The cricketer examined constructive for COVID-19 on his arrival within the nation 10 days in the past.
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According to a report by AFP, Deputy Chief Epidemiologist Hemantha Herath informed reporters in Colombo that the 33-year-old England all-rounder was Sri Lanka’s first case of the UK pressure, which is believed to be extra transmissible. The well being ministry stated additional precautions have been ordered to make sure Moeen didn’t unfold the brand new variant within the nation — which is battling an upsurge in infections — however didn’t elaborate on what they have been.
Moeen Ali had returned constructive outcomes for COVID-19 on January 4, after reaching the Island nation. The whole squad was then retested on January 5 and coaching was solely allowed after the remainder of the squad had returned unfavourable outcomes for his or her checks. Meanwhile, Moeen Ali was despatched in quarantine and so was Chris Woakes since he was in shut proximity with the 33-year-old.
While Woakes was examined unfavourable, he’s nonetheless uncertain for the primary Test. Meanwhile, Moeen Ali’s 10-day quarantine has been prolonged after he complained of fatigue.
The two-match Test collection between England and Sri Lanka begins on January 14 with each matches to be performed in Galle.
The 33-year-old all-rounder’s absence is a big hurdle for England, particularly contemplating his previous performances in Sri Lanka. Ali was England’s joint-highest wicket-taker when the crew had final come to Lanka in 2018 and claimed a 3-Zero collection triumph.
In his absence, the onus could be on Jack Leach and Dom Bess to ship the products for England within the spin division.