Mashrafe Mortaza has tested positive for Covid-19 following tests last week. Mortaza, 36, is currently in the capital Dhaka.
Mortaza, a member of parliament, had been quite active with humanitarian efforts during the pandemic, especially in his hometown and constituency Narail. It is not known yet how he contracted the virus. He is the first cricketer to test positive from Bangladesh.
Mortaza only plays ODIs at international level and had stepped down from captaincy earlier this year.
Covid-19 cases have crossed 100,000 in Bangladesh with over 1400 deaths, and the government now planning area-wise lockdown.
Bangladesh were scheduled to tour Sri Lanka in July for three Tests (part of World Test Championship) and later host New Zealand in August but both series look unlikely now. The Asia Cup, scheduled for September, is also uncertain currently which could leave the Bangladesh players without any cricket in the near future.
- CRICINFO