Ben Lister Becomes First COVID-19 Substitute

Australia batsman Marnus Labuschagne was the first concussion substitute in the history of the game. But time has changed and with the outbreak of novel coronavirus pandemic it has added new dimensions to the game. As a result, Auckland bowler Ben Lister became the first COVID-19 substitute on Tuesday.

Lister replaced his teammate Mark Chapman ahead of the Plunket Shield game against Otago. Chapman felt unwell on Monday but was still named in the Auckland team for their Plunket Shield fixture against Otago at Eden Park’s Outer Oval.

I wasn’t aware until today that Mark Chapman had been feeling ill: Gary Stead

Chapman was taken for coronavirus test subsequently after he was feeling ill. He had featured in the limited-overs format for New Zealand. Kiwi head coach Gary Stead said that he was unaware of the circumstances. Stead is present at the venue as he is watching the proceedings unfold in the first round of FC matches.

“I wasn’t aware until today that Mark Chapman had been feeling ill and had to go get a COVID test,” said New Zealand coach Gary Stead, who is watching the first round of first class fixtures.

“I’m pleased that he (Chapman) has not been penalised for doing the right thing.

“It’s obviously different times we face in the world now. I think it shows that we in cricket aren’t immune to any of that either so following the right protocols is definitely the right thing to do.”

The global governing council has approved the substitution.