Sydney, Mar 14 (UNI) The first ODI of the series was played on Friday behind closed doors,
but the New Zealand government has since announced a mandatory 14-day self-isolation
period for those entering its borders from certain countries affected by the Covid-19
pandemic, a list that includes Australia.
The enforcement comes into effect at midnight on Sunday, (March 15, 10pm Saturday in
Sydney), meaning the Black Caps will look to leave for home on Saturday.
The final two ODIs, which were to be played in Sydney and Hobart on March 15 and 20 respectively, have as a result been called off, while the T20I leg of the series, to be hosted
by New Zealand later this month, has been postponed. Both Cricket Australia and New
Zealand Cricket expressed hope that series can be played at a later date, an ICC report
said.
"NZC believes both these series can be replayed in their entirety at a later and more
appropriate date," the board stated in its release. "NZC understands and supports the
government’s position. This is a time of unprecedented risk and peril, and the personal
health and well-being of our players is paramount."
UNI XC-BM