Finn Allen tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of Bangladesh T20Is

Days before the start of the T20I series against Bangladesh, New Zealand batsman Finn Allen has tested positive for COVID-19. Allen arrived in Dhaka, four days before the other members of the squad, after representing Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. He was fully vaccinated and had passed all the pre-departure tests before taking the flight to Dhaka. The source of his infection is not identified yet.

Allen complained of experiencing COVID-19 symptoms post which the test was conducted which yielded positive result. The Wellington Firebird batsman will now have to serve few days in isolation before being allowed to join the squad. With the T20I series just a week away, Allen is likely to miss the initial leg of the series. The right-hand batter is currently isolating in a hotel and is getting treated by the Bangladesh Cricket Board's (BCB) chief medical officer. He will be monitored by New Zealand doctor Pat McHugh during quarantine.

New Zealand manager Mike Sandle, who is in constant touch will Allen revealed that the batter is doing good. He further thanked the BCB for taking proper care of the Kiwi batsman.

“It’s really unfortunate for Finn,” said Mr Sandle. “He’s comfortable at the moment and hopefully he’ll recover quickly; test negative and be cleared and approved for discharge as soon as possible.

“The Bangladesh cricket authorities have been extremely professional in their response and we’re grateful to them for that,” he said.

“They’re treating the matter very seriously.”

Earlier today, other members of the New Zealand squad also arrived in Dhaka before been moved into isolation. After three days of quarantine, the team will be allowed to train for the T20I series, which gets underway on September 1. New Zealand have named a second-string squad for the series thus getting past Bangladesh, who defeated Australia 4-1, will take a mammoth effort.