India v England T20 series forced behind closed doors after rise in Covid-19 cases

The final three matches of the series in Ahmedabad will be played without fans as a second wave of infections looms

India fined for slow-over rate in second T20I against England

India and England will play the final three matches of the T20 international series behind closed doors in Ahmedabad.

After a rise in cases of Covid-19, the Gujarat Cricket Association and the BCCI have decided to block ticket-holders from attending.

The Narendra Modi Stadium has been at around 50 per cent capacity for the opening two matches of the five-game series, which is locked at 1-1.

But following a sharp rise in infections - 26,291 were reported on Monday (March 15), the most in 2021 - strict measures have been enforced. Full refunds will be provided.

Fans are therefore unable to attend the matches on March 16, 18 and 20. No decision has been taken on the three one-day internationals in Pune next week.

A statement from GCA vice-president Shri Dhanraj Nathwani read: "Due to a rise in the number of coronavirus cases we at GCA has decided in consultation with BCCI, the matches will be played behind closed doors and will not allow the spectators in the ground during the T20 internationals to be played between India and England at Ahmedabad."

A BCCI statement added: "The BCCI will continue to comply with all the regulations put in place to curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus and will always put the health and safety of its fans and stakeholders at the top."

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