Krunal Pandya tests positive, second T20I postponed

The second T20 International match between Sri Lanka and India, set to be played tonight, has been postponed after Krunal Pandya tested positive for COVID. As per BCCI’s media advisory, if the remaining players return negative test results, the game will be rescheduled for Wednesday. 

“The second T20I between Sri Lanka and India originally scheduled to be played on July 27 has been pushed forward by a day and will now take place on Wednesday, July 28. Following the Rapid Antigen Tests conducted ahead of the match on Tuesday morning, Team India all-rounder Krunal Pandya was found to be positive. The Medical Teams have identified eight members as close contacts. The entire contingent is undergoing RT-PCR tests today to ascertain any further outbreak in the squad.” BCCI’s press release stated. 

A source close to the development confirmed to ANI that the Indian all-rounder tested positive today, forcing the two teams to be isolated. The players, who were in close contact with Krunal, have been isolated and will be monitored closely. It is reported that the medical team has identified eight members as close contacts. Earlier this month, the start of the ODI series was also rescheduled after Sri Lanka's batting coach and analyst tested positive.

“Krunal has tested positive and the T20I on Tuesday has been postponed and will happen on Wednesday if all the others test negative. The players are currently isolating," the source was quoted as saying. 

Suryakumar Yadav’s crafty half-century and a collective effort from the bowlers helped India defeat the hosts by 38 runs in the first T20I.

As things stand now, the Shikhar Dhawan-led side leads the three-match T20I series 1-0, with still two games remaining. More news to follow. 

[ANI and BCCI input]