England players to sport the names of frontline workers on their training shirts

The three-match Test series between England and the West Indies marks the return of cricket following a three-month break triggered by the pandemic. 

The England and Wales Cricket Board [ECB] decided on Monday to reward key workers for their voluntary work during such trying circumstances. England players will be seen donning the names of a few frontline workers nominated by local clubs on their training shirts prior to the first Test, starting on July 8. 

The England skipper, Joe Root, felt it was time to applaud the frontline workers for their endless contribution to ensuring the safety of the country.

"As we get back to playing the game we love, we want to take the time to honour the brave key workers who went into bat for their country under the toughest circumstances, " Joe Root was quoted as saying by ECB.

Earlier this month, Director of ECB events, Steve Elworthy, said that adequate facilities are in place at every venue, including thermal screenings and COVID-19 testing centres. He further added that bio-secure venues have all the conditions necessary to withstand the second wave of the virus.

ECB CEO, Tom Harrison announced that the three-match Test series would be named 'Raise the Bat,' hoping that some smiles would ignite back on the fans' faces.

"It has been a long and challenging journey to cricket's return and while this pales in comparison to what the country has faced, we hope the 'Raise the Bat'  Test series will bring some enjoyment... to people's lives," Tom Harrison stated. 

Schedule for three-match Test series

• 1st Test (July 8 - 12) - The Rose Bowl, Southampton 
• 2nd Test (July 16 - 20) -Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester 
• 3rd Test (July 24 - 28) - Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester