BBL - Big blow for Sydney Sixers as Josh Philippe tests positive for COVID-19

Sydney Sixers wicketkeeper-batter Josh Philippe will miss out on the playoff game against Adelaide Strikers after testing positive for COVID-19. His teammates, Jack Edwards and Mickey Edwards were the first two players to get infected by the virus. The wicketkeeper will have to isolate himself for at least seven days, which means he won't be available if the team qualifies for the final.

Philippe's testing positive has created a huge problem for the team. They don't have any other wicketkeeper in the local replacement pool. This means they have to acquire the services of former Sydney Thunders gloveman Jay Lenton, who is on the coaching staff of Sixers at the moment. According to the rules of the Local Replacement Pool, a player can be included only when they have been added to the squad ahead of the tournament.

The wicketkeeper-batter testing positive is a big blow for the three-time Big Bash League (BBL) winners. The right-hander has amassed 429 runs in 15 games at an average of 33, including four fifties so far.

“Missing from the squad is star opener/wicketkeeper, who earlier today returned a positive Covid-19 diagnosis, with that news following the positive Covid-19 diagnosis received by Jack and Mickey Edwards last week. All three players are in isolation as they recover.” an official statement read.

Daniel Hughes has been added to the squad ahead of the Challenger against Adelaide Strikers. He twisted his ankle ahead of the Perth Scorchers game and will have to pass the fitness test ahead of the game.