Australia's tour of New Zealand called off due to COVID-19 restrictions

Australia’s tour to New Zealand, slated to begin in March has been officially canceled. The decision to abandon the series between the Trans-Tasman rivals was taken keeping the border restrictions and quarantine requirements in consideration.

The three-match T20I series was organized on the basis of the New Zealand government’s plans to ease restrictions at the Trans-Tasman border. The two boards – Cricket Australia and New Zealand Cricket- agreed to shelve the series as the Government’s plans were now substantially delayed. Furthermore, there was no Mandatory Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ) accommodation available for the Australian side on their scheduled arrival into New Zealand.

CA chief Nick Hockley was quoted as saying by the ICC website: “We thank NZ Cricket for making every effort to host the series. Unfortunately…it wasn’t possible given the border restrictions and quarantine requirements.”

NZC CEO David White clarified that it was expected that the border would be open during Australia’s scheduled visit. He mentioned that is unlikely to happen now because of Omicron.

“At the time we scheduled the visit there was a lot of hope that the trans-Tasman border would be open for those who met the right criteria. However, the advent of Omicron has, unfortunately, changed everything at the border, and has made it impossible for us to continue with the series,” White said.

“It’s disappointing – but we know it’s the same for businesses and individuals and other sports, and we’re grateful for the international schedule we have,” he added.

New Zealand’s T20I vs Netherlands moved to Napier

The Australian men’s team will next be seen in action in a five-match T20I series at home against Sri Lanka from February 11 onwards. The Sydney Cricket Ground will play host to the series opener. Aaron Finch and his team will be playing their first T20I series after winning the World Cup in November last year.