Australian middle-order batsman Travis Head has reportedly tested positive for COVID-19, causing a delay in his arrival in Brisbane ahead of the second Test against the West Indies.
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, Head’s arrival has been postponed until Tuesday morning to allow him sufficient time to recover from the illness.
Travis Head, who hails from South Australia, began feeling unwell after the Adelaide Test against the West Indies, which concluded in just three days. Although the Australian team was scheduled to assemble in Brisbane on Monday, Head will remain at home for an extra day while awaiting a negative COVID-19 test result.
Under isolation protocols, Head could still participate in the Brisbane Test if he tests negative subsequently. A precedent was set when fellow squad member Matt Renshaw was permitted to play in the SCG Test against South Africa last year despite testing positive for COVID-19. Renshaw observed the match on television from a separate room when not on the field and maintained social distancing while fielding.
Pivotal role in Australia’s 10-wicket victory
Travis Head played a pivotal role in Australia’s 10-wicket victory over the West Indies during the previous Test, helping the team retain the Frank-Worrell Trophy. The 29-year-old came to the crease when Australia was at 67-3 and scored an impressive 119 runs from 124 balls, contributing to the team’s 95-run lead. He also showcased his fielding prowess by taking a spectacular catch at short leg during West Indies’ second innings.
In other news, opening batsman Usman Khawaja has been cleared to play at the Gabba after passing relevant concussion tests. Khawaja had suffered a severe blow to his chin from Shamar Joseph while batting in the fourth innings of the previous Test, forcing him to leave the field.
Australia currently leads the World Test Championship points table, and the team is determined to continue their strong performance in the upcoming matches despite the challenges posed by Travis Head’s COVID-19 diagnosis.
