Coronavirus: Australia’s two-Test tour of Bangladesh postponed

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in Australia postponing their Test tour of Bangladesh

Melbourne: Australia have postponed their tour of Bangladesh in June due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, Cricket Australia (CA) announced on Thursday (April 9).

As part of the ICC World Test Championship, Australia were scheduled to play two Tests against Bangladesh in June. However, the matches have been rescheduled to a later date.

All cricket matches across the globe have been suspended due to the ongoing health crisis over coronavirus. Australian cricketers were to play IPL 2020 in April and May but the cash-rich Twenty20 tournament has been deferred till April 15.

India is under a 21-day lockdown and the possibility of IPL 2020 being hosted is slim. The 13th edition of the IPL was scheduled to start on March 29.

“Postponing the tour is regrettable, but I would like to thank the Bangladesh Cricket Board for the open, honest and responsible discussions that led us to this mutually-agreed position,” Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts said.

He added, “The health of our people and communities is the number one priority for both Boards and that is reflected in the action we have taken in postponing the two Test matches.

“As we know, the global cricket calendar is very busy but we will do everything we can to honour our commitment to Bangladesh and will continue to work with the BCB on an agreed date.”