What is ECB’s plan to resume cricket?
While the world fights the coronavirus pandemic, England and Wales cricket board has started to plan how to restore cricketing activity once the situation starts to get better. According to reports, the ECB is planning to install coronavirus checkpoints and isolation units at grounds to resume international cricket without any spectators.
It’s noteworthy that the board had cancelled all cricketing activities till May 28 due to the pandemic.
ECB director of events Steve Elworthy confirmed that the ECB is trying to figure out ways to resume play inside closed doors. One of the measures that are being considered is having a sterile bubble that will ensure the identification of those carrying the virus.
Speaking to the Guardian, Elworthy said, “We’re mapping out what international matches would look like behind closed doors.”
The UK government had banned mass gathering of more than 500 before the country went into the lockdown.
"That was guided by the potential impact on critical services like paramedics and doctors. You would likely have to work within that number (which would be made up of essential matchday staff)... then you have to think about medical provisions, creating a safe and sterile environment around that venue, so that everyone who comes in is clear. So, it's how you test them at the gate, the isolation units that you have to put in. These are considerations we are thinking about."
While there is an ambiguity over when exactly will sport activities start resuming across the globe, Elworthy is fully aware that the priorities of the world right now are different.
"One thing you have to consider is the national mood. You might be able to deliver a match but would it be the right thing? Operationally, we believe we can deliver anything but we have to have an eye on that. You don't just operate in a bubble, you need peripheral vision.
"(And) making sure everyone is in a safe environment is front and centre of the discussions,” he said.
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