Bangladesh Tour of Sri Lanka: SLC, BCB in quarantine spat

By Wichithra Weerasinghe

Minister of Sports Namal Rajapaksa has instructed Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to look into issues raised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) over the upcoming Test series after BCB President Nazmul Hassan rejected SLC’s terms and conditions, including a 14-day quarantine.

“As we all know the #COVID19 pandemic is still at large globally, prevention measures are a high priority. However, given the significance of #cricket in the region, I have asked @OfficialSLC to consult the covid task force and reconsider the @BCBtigers matter.”     Minister of Sports Namal Rajapaksa tweeted yesterday. 

Meanwhile, SLC yesterday dismissed the claim made by BCB that they were informed a seven-day quarantine period would be sufficient ahead of the start of the international series between the two countries.

This was revealed to Ceylon Today by SLC Chairman Shammi Silva when contacted regarding the dispute that has arisen between the two Boards pertaining to the quarantine period to be undergone by the tourists.

“If they have mentioned this then it is incorrect. I really do not know as to why they refer to a week. In any case we have not held talks with the BCB regarding a seven-day quarantine period. However, we are unable to go beyond the period that has been stipulated by the health authorities. It is guaranteed that the Bangladesh team has to undergo the mandatory 14-day quarantine period,” said Silva.

Speaking further he remarked “Even before arriving in Sri Lanka they (Bangladesh) have to undergo a quarantine period and once they touch down in Colombo they will have to be subjected to the compulsory quarantine programme for a fortnight in their hotel. All costs will be borne by SLC.”

BCB had previously announced that the team would fly to Colombo on 27 September ahead of the three Test series due to get underway on 24 October.