Remaining IND vs ENG T20Is to be played behind closed doors

The five-match T20I series in Ahmedabad between India and England is currently in progress with both the teams winning a game each. The response from the crowd also has been immense in the first two T20Is with a combined attendance of more than 1.3 lakh. 

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But amid a spike in COVID-19 cases in the state, the Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) has decided to ban the spectators from entering the stadium. The last three T20Is now will be played behind closed doors and the GCA has made this decision after consulting the BCCI as well.

“Refund will be given to the spectators who have purchased tickets. Due to increasing number of Corona cases, Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) has decided to organise the remainder T20 International matches between India and England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad behind closed doors,” Dhanraj Nathwani, Vice President of the GCA said according to Cricbuzz on Monday.

BCCI also released the statement regarding the same reiterating that the board will always prioritise the safety of the fans. The decision has been taken after discussions with health authorities. “The decision was arrived at following detailed discussions with the state and local health authorities. The BCCI will continue to comply with all the regulations put in place to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus and will always put the health and safety of its fans and stakeholders at the top,” the statement read.

The third T20I is set to be played on Tuesday while the last two matches of the series are scheduled on March 18 and 20. The two teams will also face-off in three ODIs in Pune from March 23.