England players to resume training from next week under strict protocols

Amid COVID-19 outbreak, the cricketing activities have come down to a major halt. However, now there is good news for the cricket fans as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed that its players will resume practice under their individual training programme from next week under strict protocols defined by the board.

It was reported earlier that the ECB is planning to play six Tests across two months against Pakistan and West Indies from July. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has responded positively to the proposal and the series might go ahead if all things fall in place.

Now, ECB has taken a step to organize an individual training programme to keep England team players fit as well as in the touch of the game. In a statement, the board said that they have prepared a plan under the guidance of the government. Moreover, they have followed each and every guideline while preparing the blueprint for the aforementioned training scheme.

“The ECB’s plan has been designed in line with the Government’s guidance, and we will continue to ensure we comply with their regulations as it develops,” ECB said in a statement of their press-release.

Players will not be allowed to use the dressing room

ECB said that they will utilise each and every ground across the country to train players individually. The board has also given instructions to all the players and support staff to come kit ready in the ground. However, they will not be allowed to use the dressing room. Meanwhile, there are also reports that women cricketers will begin with their training by the end of June.

Ashley Giles, the managing director of England cricket said that their first aim is always going to be the safety of their staff, players and community. And, they will follow rules and regulation drawn by the government officials to prevent the novel virus.

“These are the first steps for players return to training ahead of international cricket potentially resuming later this summer. The safety of players, staff and our community is our first priority throughout this protocol. We are committed to adhering to public health guidelines and Government directives intended to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” Giles said in a statement.