South Africa vs Netherlands: Decision on fate of last 2 ODIs ‘in next 24-48 hours’ amid Nu variant threat

The fate of the final two one-day internationals between South Africa and the Netherlands remains uncertain amid growing concerns about the new Nu B.1.1.529 variant that has been detected in the rainbow nation.

The Proteas and the Dutch are currently playing the first ODI in Bloemfontein where the match has been halted due to heavy rain.

The next two games are scheduled to be played at the same venue on November 28 and December 1 but the series might get postponed or even cancelled due to fears of another Covid wave in South Africa after the detection of a new Nu SARS-CoV-2 variant, which the scientists believe could evade the body’s immune response and make it more transmissible.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond (KNCB) released a joint statement saying that they are trying to figure out what to do in this current situation while prioritising the physical and mental well-being of its players.

Logistical issues and travel restrictions to and from South Africa have made it nearly impossible for the Dutch team to leave the country in the next couple of days.

“Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond (KNCB) are aware of news reports doing the rounds regarding the Netherlands tour to South Africa being cancelled or postponed.

“Both boards can confirm that following updated information, it is highly unlikely that the visiting team will be able to fly out of South Africa over the weekend. The KNCB is reviewing all of its options, while prioritising the physical and mental well-being of its players.

“A decision on the continuation of the series will follow in the next 24 to 48 hours, while all flight options are being considered. No other comment will be offered until a definite resolution has been reached,” the joint statement read.

WHAT IS THE NEW VARIANT AND WHERE WAS IT DETECTED?

The new coronavirus variant, B.1.1.529, was first detected in Botswana. The variant has spread to South Africa as well, and scientists believe it has a major role in the sudden spike in new Covid-19 infections in the country.

On Thursday, South Africa Health Minister Joe Phaahla confirmed that a new variant has been found in the country, and it is a concern because of its high number of mutations and rapid spread among young people.

So far, South Africa has confirmed around 100 specimens as B.1.1.529, mainly in the small but densely populated province of Gauteng. Besides Botswana and South Africa, samples of B.1.1.529 variant have also been confirmed in Hong Kong, Belgium and Israel.