Head tests positive for COVID-19

SYDNEY: The Australian cricket team suffered a major jolt ahead of the fourth Ashes Test at Sydney from January 5 with their key batter Travis Head testing positive for COVID-19.

Cricket Australia (CA) issued a statement on Friday morning saying the batter had tested positive for Covid-19 "following a routine PCR test".

"Head is asymptomatic and will remain in Melbourne and isolate with his partner for seven days in line with Victorian Government Health requirements. He will be unavailable for selection for the fourth Vodafone men's Ashes Test, starting at the SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground) on January 5," said Cricket Australia.

Reserve batter Usman Khawaja is likely to replace Head in the fourth Test. Head was the hero of the opening Ashes Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, smashing an uncharacteristically fast 152 (148 balls) in Australia's first innings total of 425 runs.

His contribution led the team to a massive nine-wicket win and take a 1-0 lead against the Joe Root-led England. IANS

Also Read: Smriti Mandhana nominated for ICC Women's Cricketer of the Year award

Also Watch: