Commonwealth Games 2022: A member of India Women's squad tests COVID-19 positive

The Indian women’s cricket team would be eager to put their best foot forward as they gear up to participate in the upcoming Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham. However, just a week before the commencement of the competition, the Indians received a huge setback as a member of the squad has been tested positive for COVID-19.

This news has been confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Sourav Ganguly after the apex council meeting of the board on Thursday, July 21. Reportedly, the concerned member contracted the virus before boarding the flight to the UK. As of now, the name of the person has not been revealed.

India women’s Commonwealth Games 2022 schedule

The Indian eves would kickstart their Commonwealth Games 2022 campaign against the reigning T20 world champions Australia on Friday, July 29 which also happens to be the curtain-raiser of the showpiece T20 event. All eyes would then be on India’s next group fixture against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday, July 31.

India are in Group B along with the likes of Australia, Pakistan, and Barbados. Eight teams will be participating in the quadrennial sporting event with four each being divided into two groups.

India are one of the strongest contenders in this tournament and the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side would be aiming to go all the way this time around. All eight teams would be hoping to give their best in order to stand on top of the podium with gold medals. The sides finishing second and third are also assured of a podium finish with silver and bronze medals respectively.

Cricket is making its return to the Commonwealth Games for the first time after 24 years. The List-A men’s tournament was the last instance when this game was played during the 1998 edition in the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur. Meanwhile, it now remains to be seen how India overcome this COVID scare with their preparations for the game already in full swing.