England cricket team ‘not concerned’ after hotel staff test positive for Covid-19

England are “not concerned” after it emerged that two members of staff at the team hotel in Galle have tested positive for Covid-19.  

Two of the kitchen staff at the Lighthouse Hotel have tested positive and are due to be admitted to hospital, according to local media.  

England were informed of the news on Friday morning and issued a statement saying it was business as usual on tour for “the most Covid compliant team in world cricket” as they had not come into contact with the individuals.  

“We are not concerned,” he said. "Our protocols have been excellent and we continue to be vigilant.

“We are the most compliant team in world cricket. We are the only international team in any sport to have a Covid compliance officer. He is responsible for ensuring we meet the highest of standards across our Covid protocols. We remain vigilant and respectful of the Sri Lankan authorities and we will do everything that is possible to keep our players and the general population safe.  

“We are being vigilant around our team base in Galle and at the stadium. The players respect social distancing, wear masks in indoor settings and at the hotel dine on individual tables.  

“Our Covid compliance officer briefs the players and management on a daily basis and communicates the latest developments both in Sri Lanka and in the UK.”

England were tested for the fourth time since arriving in Sri Lanka on Tuesday, and recorded a full round of negatives. Moeen Ali remains in self isolation having tested positive on arrival in the country. As things stand, England are due to be tested again on the 19th.  

“Moeen Ali, who tested positive when we arrived in Sri Lanka, has been isolating for 12 days in separate accommodation,” said the statement. “He remains isolated at a different hotel to the team in Galle. He continues to receive care from Sri Lanka and England medical teams and will return to the squad as soon as it is safe to do so. We have yet to be given a date of when this will be.”