Cricket: Blackcaps' Michael Bracewell tests positive for COVID-19, could still play third test against England

  • 16/06/2022

Blackcaps all-rounder Michael Bracewell has tested positive for COVID-19 but could yet still play in their third test against England on June 23.

The 31-year-old made his test debut in the five-wicket loss in the second test at Trent Bridge, but woke up with symptoms the day after.

He will be in isolation for the next five days before rejoining the group with the final test at Headingley in Leeds next Thursday.

The rest of the New Zealand squad will be tested today and underdo the tour health protocols to assess if any further players have COVID-19.

Bracewell joins a long list of Blackcaps players and coaching staff to get COVID-19, with Henry Nicholls, Blair Tickner, Shane Jurgensen and Kane Williamson all coming down with it this tour.

"The rest of the team will be getting tested almost immediately, just so we know where everyone else is at," New Zealand coach Gary Stead said.

"He’s obviously been a close contact to everyone else in the group as well.

"It’s unfortunate for Michael, but in terms of the symptoms they’re pretty mild, he’s feeling good and he’ll be out of isolation as we start training again in Leeds, so there will be no other replacements sought for him."

The Blackcaps have confirmed a replacement player for Bracewell won't be called up at this stage of the tour.