Cricket Ireland postpones series against Zimbabwe due to covid restrictions in Northern Ireland

Cricket Ireland has postponed the upcoming home series against Zimbabwe due to Covid-19 restrictions in Northern Ireland, an administrative area of the United Kingdom government.

"Following the latest advice for the conditions around which scheduled matches may proceed in Northern Ireland - most notably the stipulations of health authorities around quarantining requirements of the incoming Zimbabwean squad - Cricket Ireland has today confirmed that the Zimbabwe Men's tour to Ireland will need to be rescheduled," Cricket Ireland Chief Executive Warren Deutrom said in a press release issued by the board on their official Twitter handle.

All the matches of the series were scheduled to be played in Northern Ireland at the Civil Service Cricket Club Ground, Stormont in Belfast and Bready Cricket Club Ground in Magheramason.

It is worth noting the fact that although two different countries in terms of political administration, Northern Ireland and Ireland are represented by the same cricket team. So, even after Zimbabwe being in category two of Covid-19 nations travelling list, it is on the red list in the UK and thus the series could not be approved on health measures.

Saying that the co-operation from Zimbabwe Cricket is appreciated, Duetron added, "It is now anticipated that the series will be held in August-September 2021, but that some venue changes may be required to accommodate the latest advice received.”

"We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of Zimbabwe Cricket Board and all involved as we work through these latest challenges, and will provide updates as soon as possible."

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