Australia T20I captain Mitchell Marsh has been tested for positive for COVID-19 ahead of the first T20I of the three-match series against West Indies, starting on January 9 (Friday) at Bellerive Oval in Hobart.
Marsh has become the latest victim of COVID-19 spree in Australian camp during the ongoing home series against West Indies. Before Mitchell Marsh, the latest victim was Josh Inglis who diagnosed with virus ahead of the 1st ODI against Caribbean side but was cleared to play with safety precautions.
Just like other Australian teammates, Mitchell Marsh has been cleared by Cricket Australia to take the field in the 1st T20I against West Indies. The 33-year-old will have to maintain distance from his teammates throughout the match and use separate dressing room in order to avoid any physical contact with the players.
"Australia T20 skipper Mitch Marsh has tested positive to Covid-19 but will still play in tomorrow’s first T20 against the Windies in Hobart, in line with CA protocols. Marsh will use a separate dressing room during the match and stay distanced while on the field." Cricket Australia's statement
Cameron Green was the first Australian player to be infected with the virus in the ongoing home series against West Indies. Also, he was the first male cricketer and second after Kim McGrath to take the field despite testing positive for COVID-19 during the 2nd Test against Caribbean side. However, Green maintained his distance from his teammates during national anthem and wicket celebration.
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald, Travis Head, and Moises Henriques have been infected with virus but didn't stop them from carrying on their national duties.
Australia to begin preparation for T20 World Cup 2024
Australia will begin their preparation for the T20 World Cup 2024 with the three-match T20I series against tourists from West Indies. The showpiece event will take place in West Indies and USA, starting on July 1.
Australia won their first T20 World Cup triumph in 2021 but failed to defend the title as the they were knocked out of the tournament from the group stage in 2022.
Following the T20I series against Caribbean side, Australia will play three T20I matches away against New Zealand, starting on February 21. Mitchell Marsh will continue to lead the side in the T20I series against Kiwis.
Though Australia are yet to announce permanent T20I captain, Mitchell Marsh has remained as skipper despite return of Pat Cummins, Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc for New Zealand T20Is.
