https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/aus- ... 19-1328212
Australia allrounder Tahlia McGrath took part in the Commonwealth Games gold-medal match against India despite testing positive for Covid-19.
McGrath did not line up with her team-mates during the national anthems and was seen sitting by herself in the stands wearing a face mask while the other Australian players sat in their dugout. However, she came into bat at No. 4 without a mask on.
Commonwealth Games Australia confirmed the news of McGrath's participation in a statement during play on Sunday, saying they had consulted with a tournament expert team and match officials, before McGrath was permitted to take part.
"McGrath presented to team management with mild symptoms on Sunday and subsequently returned the positive test," the statement said. "She was named in the starting XI at the toss and the International Cricket Council (ICC) approved her participation in the final.
"Cricket Australia medical staff have implemented a range of comprehensive protocols which will be observed throughout the game and for post-match activity, to minimise the risk of transmission to all players and officials."
It is understood to be the first case in international cricket when a player known to have Covid-19 has taken part in a match, and comes after it emerged that the participation of Covid-positive players across all sports at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham would be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Factors considered include the severity of an individual's illness, how heavily infectious they are likely to be, and whether they compete outdoors or in a confined space.
The toss was delayed while consultations on the matter took place between various governing bodies but play started at Edgbaston on time.
(touch wood)
