Travis Head, the dynamic Australian batsman who impressed everyone with a match-winning century in the first Test in Adelaide, has unfortunately tested positive for COVID-19.
In a recent twist leading up to the eagerly awaited Brisbane Test, Australian cricketer Travis Head finds himself grappling with COVID-19 concerns. The dynamic player, who left a lasting impression in the first Test with a century in Adelaide, has now tested positive for the virus.
The unease following the Adelaide Test prompted the COVID test, and Cricket Australia has confirmed that Head’s arrival in Brisbane will be delayed until Tuesday morning, providing him with more recovery time. The team’s crucial training session at the Gabba is set for 5 pm on Tuesday, introducing an element of uncertainty regarding Head’s participation in the upcoming day/night Test.
As the team assembles in Brisbane to gear up for the next challenge, Head remains in isolation at home, hopeful for a negative test result before rejoining the squad.
If Head persistently tests positive, there’s still a chance for him to take part under stringent isolation protocols, similar to fellow squad member Matt Renshaw’s experience during last year’s SCG Test against South Africa. Renshaw, despite testing positive for COVID, participated in the game while strictly adhering to isolation measures, both on and off the field.
Travis Head was named the player of the match at The Adelaide Oval after scoring an impressive 119 runs in Australia’s first innings, with Khawaja being the next-best batter with 45.
Over the past year, Travis Head has been Australia’s standout performer in Tests and ODIs. Losing him for the next match would be a significant setback for Pat Cummins & Co.
This is the second time Head has contracted the virus, the first being in 2021, causing him to miss the 4th Ashes Test against England in Sydney. The Gabba will host the second Test between Australia and West Indies starting on January 25.
Australia’s Test Squad for the 2nd Test vs WI
Marnus Labuschagne, Matt Renshaw, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland.
