Amid the coronavirus pandemic, many international sporting events got adversely affected. Major sporting activities were either called-off or postponed to future date pertaining to the on-going crisis. Cricket tournaments also were affected because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, now almost three months of cricketing activities, international cricket will be returning this month. England will be taking on West Indies at Southampton’s Ageas Bowl on Wednesday. This match will mark the return of international cricket.
Meanwhile, in the absence of regular skipper Joe Root, all-rounder Ben Stokes will have an extra bit of responsibility on his shoulder. England cricket team’s regular captain Joe Root will be missing the match as he will be attending the birth of his second child.
Ben Stokes will be under a bit more pressure as the matches won’t be played under normal circumstances. The three-match Test series with an added significance of the pandemic makes the going bit tough for Stokes.
Also Read – Happy Birthday MS Dhoni: Wishes Pour In For The Former Captain As He Turns 39
n a statement, Stokes said, “I know everybody has been craving this, certainly from a players’ point of view but I also think from a spectators’ and fans’ view.” He also added that this will also be a massive occasion for a lot of people.
The three-match Test series will be played behind closed doors, with no spectators. Referring to the same Stokes said that he won’t let the absence of crowd let team England slip their standards.
Prior to the game, players and staff members of both the teams are living and playing at bio-secure grounds, which have an on-site hotel. The players and staff members are subjected to adhere to social distancing measures. They also have to follow the testing regime twice a week.