Australia vs New Zealand ODI and T20I series postponed amid travel restrictions

The tourists will return home after New Zealand imposed new travel restrictions in response to the coronavirus pandemic

Australia’s one-day international and forthcoming T20I series with New Zealand have been cancelled as the ongoing coronavirus outbreak continues to claim sporting events.

The tourists will return home after New Zealand imposed new travel restrictions in response to the pandemic. Those measures - which come into effect from midnight on Sunday - state that people entering the country from the majority of countries must self-isolate for 14 days.

"I make no apologies. This is an unprecedented time," said New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Arden.

As a result, the Blackcaps squad are making arrangements to fly home before the Sunday deadline. 

Cricket New Zealand commented that it supports the government’s decision and hopes that the series will be replayed at later date.

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“NZC believes both these series can be replayed in their entirety at a later and more appropriate date.

“NZC understands and supports the government’s position. This is a time of unprecedented risk and peril, and the personal health and well-being of our players is paramount.”

Australia won the first match of the ODI series which was played behind closed doors at the SCG on Friday.

After the match New Zealand seamer Lockie Ferguson was placed in isolation after complaining of sore throat.

The three-match T20I series which was due to begin on March 24 has also been postponed.