Since the Coronavirus outbreak in the whole world has taken a toll, almost all of the sporting leagues have been either suspended or postponed across the globe. The impact of COVID-19 has been such that it has forced some major tournaments to shut down. England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has now come up with a decision to not start their 2020 season until the late of May this year.
ECB has announced a seven-week delay to start its 2020 season after discussing it with the countries and the Professional Cricketers’ Association (PCA).
“It was agreed that, given the current information available, a seven-week delay to the start of the season is the most appropriate approach”, as per the released statements of ECB.
The last match of England Champion County which was supposed to be played in Sri Lanka between Marylebone Cricket Club and Essex later this month has also been called off due to the pandemic.
The ECB officials have even started working on their new schedule of starting their season by June, July or August. The main focus after resuming the season would be the three-Test series against West Indies, the T20 Cup, followed by the women’s tour of India.
“Close liaison with the Government will continue, with the discussions on the potential of starting the season behind the doors and giving sports fans the opportunity to live broadcast action.”
The potential for reduced versions pf competitions, should the season become further truncated, will also be discussed.” As per the statement by the ECB.
The West Indies tour was scheduled to take place from June 4 at the Oval.
“Securing the future of the game will be a primary focus as we plot a revised schedule with an emphasis on the most financially important forms of the game for the counties across international and domestic cricket.”
This is really crucial time for all the sports fans around the world and as the PCA chief executive Tony Irish said:
“These are unprecedented times which require the right decisions to be made for all, including everyone working, and involved, in cricket.
“The PCA supports this decision to delay the start of the season based on expert advice relating to health and wellbeing and taking into account the government’s position.”