England-bound New Zealand players leave for Maldives from Delhi

Days after they were shifted to a mini bio-bubble in Delhi post the suspension of IPL 2021, New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, Mitchell Santner and Kyle Jamieson have moved to Maldives.

The three Kiwi players, alongside physio Tommy Simsek and trainer Chris Donaldson, will now leave for England from Maldives. New Zealand are scheduled to play two Tests against England, starting June 2, before taking on India in the final of the World Test Championship that kicks off on 18th June. The Kiwis will also feature in a four-day practice game against Somerset from May 25.

"There have also been changes to the arrangements for New Zealand’s UK-bound Test contingent, with Kane Williamson, Mitchell Santner, Kyle Jamieson, and physio Tommy Simsek, transferring to the Maldives (rather than staying in New Delhi) ahead of travelling to England.

"BLACKCAPS trainer Chris Donaldson, who initially signalled his intention to return home on one of the NZ-bound charter flights before returning to England, has instead opted to remain with the UK-bound players and is also in the Maldives.

"The decision for this group to transfer to the Maldives was taken after advice that their entry into the UK, initially thought to be about May 11, was likely to be delayed a further week," said New Zealand Cricket in an official statement.

On the other hand, New Zealand’s WTC final opponent, India too are contemplating creating a bio-bubble for its players in India before leaving for England. The squad for the WTC final was announced on 7th May. The 20-member squad led by Virat Kohli will also feature in the 5-Test series against England after the World Test Championship.