The new Covid-19 variant — B.1.1.529 — which has global governments concerned has also led to questions over India’s upcoming tour of South Africa starting December 17. According to Sports Tak source, the board is concerned about the recent developments. However, they are yet to take a call on the long tour.
“We are waiting to hear from Cricket South Africa regarding the situation. We are concerned but currently we are not in condition to take a call till the time we hear anything from the host board. We are awaiting more clarification before taking a final call,” the source said.
The source also said that the health and safety of the players is paramount and Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is keeping a close track, from Covid protocols to bio-bubble and quarantine.
While India are scheduled to fly to South Africa on December 8, they are scheduled to play the first Test of three-Test series on December 17 followed by three ODis and four T20Is. The venues of these matches include Johannesburg, Centurion, Paarl and Cape Town. The major cause of concern is the rise of cases in the northern part of South Africa which includes Johannesburg and Centurion.
Before the senior side’s tour, India A are currently playing the first unofficial Test of the three-match series. The source assured that there is nothing to worry about. Also, the Indian board is in constant touch with players and the management. There are two more matches to go in India A’s tour of South Africa which will end on December 9.
Why the new variant is more lethal?
According to early research by scientists, the major spike in mutations can make the new variant immune to vaccines. Thus, there will be higher risk of transmission may cause an increase in intensity of virus' symptoms.
