Ashes 2021-22: England Head Coach Chris Silverwood Returns Positive Test Result

England cricket team’s head coach Chris Silverwood has returned a positive test result on the eve of the fourth Test of the Ashes set to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

Silverwood has already begun his isolation in Melbourne after he was deemed to be in close contact with a family member who also tested positive for the virus. The 46-year-old is fully vaccinated. He won’t be taking part in the SCG Test, however.

As per BBC, he is currently asymptomatic and is expected to remain isolated until January 8. If things pan out well, he will return to the Test setup for the fifth and final Test in Hobart.

The news comes after a net bowler tested positive on Sunday, forcing England to continue its training sessions with their main team bowlers and coaching staff. Both teams are routinely undergoing PCR tests in light of the recent outbreak.

Chris Silverwood’s case comes after Travis Head tests positive

The Ashes series has been hit hard with positive covid cases, starting with Australian batter, Travis Head, testing positive. He was ruled out of the SCG Test and has been replaced by Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis who have been called up as cover.

Even former Aussie cricketer, Glenn McGrath tested positive and will not be part of the pink Test, where he is generally seen promoting awareness against breast cancer in memory of his late wife, Jane McGrath.

Despite the rampant increase in cases, the fourth Test will be held according to schedule as the remaining players and staff have tested negative. There is a rain threat looming large on the SCG Test which will begin on January 5.

Also Read – Ashes 2021-22: We Certainly Don’t Want To Be A Team To Lose 5-0 – Jos Buttler