Sri Lanka allows cricketers to train in Colombo

Cricket is gradually trying to get back to its feet. After England allowed selective training for its cricketers, Sri Lanka has followed the suit. Starting Monday, Sri Lanka allowed a select group of players, mostly bowlers, to train. The move is aimed at creating a safe environment for return of cricket to the country. 

Cricket has been on hold since March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with Sri Lanka’s home series against England and South Africa getting among some of the major series getting cancelled.

Colombo Cricket Club with residential facilities will host a group of 13 players for a 12-day camp. During the duration of the camp, the players will not be allowed to step outside the premises. They will be accompanied by four members of the coaching staff. Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement, “The players taking part in the camp represent a general squad chosen from across all formats, and primarily consist of bowlers, as they need more time for conditioning before going into the active competition.”

The statement added that the board will ensure that the government guidelines and regulations will be strictly followed.

India are scheduled to travel to the island nation for a short limited over series in July. However, the Indian board has said that it’s waiting to get more clarity from the government regarding curbs on international travel before deciding on the tour.

South Africa might follow Sri Lanka and England after the government allowed training and playing of professional non-contact sport. The decision was welcomed by Cricket South Africa (CSA). The acting chief executive of the board said, “This is a big boost for the operational side of our cricket.

CSA's Covid-19 committee meets on Monday to chalk out a plan to return to training and playing, he added.

[With The Hindu inputs]