Match referee Phil Whitticase tests positive for Covid-19

England's One-Day International series against Sri Lanka will go ahead as planned despite a Covid-19 alert after match referee Phil Whitticase tested positive for the virus. The first of the three ODIs will be played on Tuesday (June 29) in Chester-le-Street.

Whitticase served during the three-match T20 series between the sides, which concluded on Saturday, but was found to be carrying the virus during a PCR test completed on Friday.

No players or backroom staff have been identified as close contacts and all are free to contest Tuesday's match as planned. However, Whitticase and seven individuals from the officiating and anti-corruption teams have been instructed to self-isolate for 10 days.

"Seven other members from the match officials and anti-corruption unit teams were deemed close contacts, including five members due to officiate at the first ODI on Tuesday, 29 June at Emirates Riverside, Durham.," the England and Wales Cricket Board said in a statement.

"Those impacted will have to self-isolate for 10-days until July 7. No members of the two teams were impacted. Alternative arrangements will be put in place to ensure Tuesday's ODI goes ahead as planned."