ENG-SA 3rd Test suspended as a mark of respect following death of the Queen

Sports in England will hold a day of mourning on Friday following the demise of Queen Elizabeth II. The third and ongoing Test between England and South Africa at The Oval has been suspended in the wake of the unfortunate event and will likely resume action on Saturday. The ECB confirmed in a statement that no scheduled cricket would take place on Friday, including day two of the final Test against the Proteas.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced that no play will be scheduled for Friday after the death of the Queen, aged 96. The decision on the further course of the Test will be made after due consultation with the government. The ECB also revealed that ticket-holders for day two are eligible for a full refund.

"Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Friday's play between England and South Africa Men at The Oval, along with all scheduled matches in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, will not take place. For fixtures beyond Friday, updates will be provided in due course," the ECB said in a statement.

CSA are willing to extend the team's stay in the UK to facilitate the completion of the series

According to reports the ECB and CSA (Cricket South Africa) met together and came up with an amicable decision to the postponement of play on Friday. The Proteas are understood to be willing to accept the decision of the English government and will extend their stay if needed to see the completion of the series, which is tied at one win apiece.

Meanwhile, prepRichard Thompson, chairman of the ECB, extended his heartfelt condolences after the Queen's passing. He remembered the support cricket received from the Queen, who was always vocal about the gentlemen's game.

Richard Thompson said: "I'm sure I speak for everyone in the game when I say how truly sad I am to hear of the Queen's passing. Her Majesty has been such a great supporter of the game and was always so vocal of her and her late husband's enjoyment around the sport. Her dedication to her country will never be forgotten. For her service and her selflessness over her extraordinary reign, we owe her a debt that can never be repaid."