Match referee in England-Sri Lanka T20I series tests positive for COVID-19

Phil Whitticase, the match referee who officiated in the three-match T20I series between England and Sri Lanka, has tested positive for COVID-19, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Sunday.

The 56-year-old is asymptomatic and will now isolate himself for 10 days. No members of the two teams were impacted.

“Following a PCR test administered on Friday 25 June at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton, ICC Match Referee Phil Whitticase has tested positive for COVID-19,” the ECB said in a statement.

“Whitticase, who was officiating during the three-match Vitality IT20 Series between England and Sri Lanka, is well and is asymptomatic.

“He will now observe a period of 10-days of self-isolation from 25 June, in accordance with the U.K. Government’s protocol on quarantine.” There are, however, no threats to the opening ODI of the three-match series between the two teams at Chester-le-Street scheduled for June 29.

“Alternative arrangements will be put in place to ensure Tuesday’s ODI goes ahead as planned,” the ECB said.

“Seven other members from the match officials and anti-corruption unit teams were deemed close contacts, including five members due to officiate at the first ODI on Tuesday, 29 June at Emirates Riverside, Durham.

“Those impacted will have to self-isolate for 10-days until July 7. No members of the two teams were impacted,” the statement said.

England won the T20I series against Sri Lanka 3-0.