The BBL has made a decision on the immediate future of the competition as it grapples with eleven confirmed Covid cases in one day.
The match between the Sydney Thunder and Adelaide Strikers has been given the green light to go ahead, despite four Thunder players testing positive for Covid.
The Thunder players in question are isolating, but the remainder of the squad returned negative PCR tests and are subsequently free to play.
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Cricket Australia’s General Manager of the BBL Alistair Dobson paid tribute to the Thunder and Strikers for ensuring they did everything right so the game could go ahead.
“Firstly, our thoughts go to everyone in the community affected by the spread of Covid-19 in recent weeks, including members of our Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder squads,” Dobson said.
“We thank the Strikers, Thunder and SA Health for their hard work to ensure this match can proceed.
“We will continue to work closely with our Clubs, relevant governments, broadcasters, partners and venues to ensure the season continues safely and successfully throughout January.”
Fox Cricketreports that the Thunder v Strikers clash will proceed with Level 5 protocols, which will see Thunder plays staying separate from one another and their opponents.
Even when the Sydney side is batting, they must sit in groups of no more than three to reduce the risk of spreading Covid.
Earlier this morning, the Melbourne Stars confirmed seven players had contracted the virus.
Stars General Manager Blair Crouch said: “First and foremost, we wish everyone affected by this outbreak a quick and speedy recovery.
“The health and safety of our players and staff will continue to be our priority, especially with the challenges the new Omicron variant presents.
“We are providing all the support we can to players, staff and their families. I’d like to thank the medical teams at both Cricket Victoria and Cricket Australia for their ongoing guidance and support.”
Originally published as BBL confirms Sydney Thunder v Adelaide Strikers will go ahead amid Covid cases