UAE-Ireland series thrust into deep uncertainty as Covid-19 outbreak spikes second ODI

Four further cases in the hosts' camp has led to another alteration to a series of which only one match has been played

Uncertainty hangs over the remainder of United Arab Emirates and Ireland's one-day international series after the second match in Abu Dhabi was suspended following another raft of positive cases of Covid-19 in the hosts' camp.

Four additional players, all unnamed, have returned adverse results, forcing the entire squad into quarantine.

In all, seven of the original UAE squad selected for the series have now picked up the virus, an outbreak which could threaten the remainder of matches, with three still to be played. UAE lead 1-0 after a six-wicket win in the first ODI last week.

The news had led to the second ODI, which had been rescheduled for Tuesday (January 12) due to a third positive, being suspended. Matches are also pencilled in for January 14 and 16 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium but it remains to be seen if they go ahead.

Talks are ongoing between the Emirates Cricket Board and Cricket Ireland over whether the rest of the series will be played and if and when they will be rescheduled.

Those discussions are complicated, at least in the short-term, by the three ODIs scheduled between Afghanistan and Ireland which are due to take place at the same venue on January 21, 24 and 26.

An ECB statement on the suspension reads: "This decision, supported by Cricket Ireland, was made after a new directive was received from authorities.

"This followed over 48 hours of self-isolation by the UAE team after four reported positive cases of Covid-19. Additionally, the directive from the authorities requires the UAE team to remain in quarantine for an extended period of time.

"Discussions are continuing with all concerned parties, including the relevant authorities, regarding rescheduling of the remaining matches. A decision will be made and communicated once an agreement has been reached and approved."

A CI statement added they would "continue to monitor the situation over coming days" but would prioritise the health and safety of players and staff.