Amidst COVID concerns, Australia’s No.4 batter Cameron Green and coach Andrew McDonald have contracted the virus ahead of the second Test at the Gabba.
Australia’s allrounder Cameron Green and coach Andrew McDonald have tested positive for COVID-19, making them the latest members of the squad affected. Following Travis Head’s contraction of the virus post the first Test against West Indies, he tested negative after an independent trip to Brisbane for the second match at the Gabba. Travis Head is now cleared for Test participation without restrictions.
Green and McDonald will stay isolated until they return a negative test. As per Cricket Australia’s protocols, Green can participate in the Test even if the result is not negative within 24 hours. The Gabba has a spare changeroom for COVID precautions.
When speaking to cricket.com.au, Steve Smith assured that Green is physically fine, and Australia will maintain an unchanged playing XI for the second Test. The team, currently leading the series 1-0, won the first match in Adelaide by 10 wickets.
Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, highlighted the advantage of their familiarity with the pink ball in day-night Tests, emphasizing the team’s extensive experience in playing such matches annually.
Despite this, Smith urged caution for Australia’s batters, acknowledging the formidable West Indian pace attack faced in the previous week. He emphasized the challenge of batting under lights with a new pink ball, noting the favorable conditions for swing, a factor that could also benefit the West Indian bowlers.
The upcoming Test at the Gabba is expected to feature a bowler-friendly pitch, reminiscent of the challenging conditions witnessed in a two-day Test against South Africa last summer.
Smith also acknowledged the difficulty for batters on such pitches but expressed optimism, stating that, based on reports, the wicket appears promising, albeit with the added variable of the pink ball this year.
Last Updated on January 24, 2024
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