|| Desk Report ||

The England and Wales Cricket Board has thought to bring back crowds at Edgbaston and Oval but their request has been cancelled as the UK Government did not give the permission. The permissions were denied to allow the crowds because of the increasing number of positive COVID-19 cases in the country.

While Edgbaston and Oval had already one round of trials and were eyeing on 2500 spectators more for the first round of the Bob Willis Trophy.

"We understand this is disappointing for supporters who have waited a long time to see their clubs in action and were looking forward to attending pilot events at the Kia Oval and Edgbaston this weekend," the ECB stated in a recent release.

The release further added, "However, we understand the reasons the government has made this decision, and remain ready to work with them to ensure supporters can safely return to stadiums when government advice allows. We are pleased the Bob Willis Trophy will still begin this weekend behind closed doors, and fans will be able to watch their teams in action through the online streams being provided."

After the announcement by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, on Friday, Chief Executive of Surrey County Cricket Club, Richard Gould, told, "I know this will cause great disappointment for those that were due to come to The Kia Oval on Saturday and Sunday, and I apologise that we are unable to welcome you this weekend.”