COVID-19: India's tour of Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe called off

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced that Team India will not be travelling to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. The Men in Blue were originally scheduled to play against Sri Lanka (away) from June 24 for three ODIs and as many T20Is, and tour Zimbabwe for a three-match ODI series starting August 22.

BCCI further emphasized that the board will conduct a camp for its contracted players only when it is deemed safe to train outdoor. The Indian board added that while they are determined to resume international and domestic cricket, they won’t rush into any decision that can negatively impact the efforts put by the Indian government and other agencies in containing the spread of the virus. 

ALSO READ: India's tour of Sri Lanka called off due to COVID-19 pandemic

Earlier on Thursday, Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that the BCCI has informed them about not travelling to the island nation for the T20I and ODI series with hopes that the series can be played later.

Full Statement from BCCI on Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe Tours:

"The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced that the Indian Cricket Team will not travel to Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe owing to the current threat of COVID-19. Team India was originally scheduled to travel to the island nation from 24th June 2020 for three ODIs and as many T20Is and to Zimbabwe for a series comprising three ODIs starting 22nd August 2020.

ALSO READ: Brijesh Patel: In empty stadiums, it hardly matters if IPL is held in India or overseas

"As stated in the earlier press release issued on 17th May, the BCCI will conduct a camp for its contracted players only when it is completely safe to train outdoors. The BCCI is determined to take steps towards the resumption of international and domestic cricket, but it will not rush into any decision that will jeopardize the efforts put in by the Central and State governments and several other respective agencies in containing the spread of the coronavirus.

"The Office-Bearers have been taking note of advisories issued by the Government of India and the Board is committed to fully comply with the restrictions imposed and guidelines issued. The BCCI will continue to study and evaluate the changing situation."