Cricket: Arthur and Thirimanne test COVID positive

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) confirmed that national coach Mickey Arthur and top order batsman Lahiru Thirimanne have been tested positive for COVID-19 following PCR tests carried out on Tuesday.

"Following PCR tests carried out on the Provisional Squad, which was preparing to take part in the National team's upcoming tour of West Indies, Head Coach Mickey Arthur and Sri Lanka player Lahiru Thirimanne have tested positive for COVID-19," said SLC, releasing an official statement today (3).  
 
Arthur and Thirimanne were detected following PCR tests carried out on Tuesday for the entire 36-member squad, along with the coaching staff, net bowlers, and the HPC staff.  
 
"Immediately upon identification, both Mickey Arthur and Lahiru Thirimanne have been directed to follow the government's health protocol laid out on COVID-19," the statement added.  
 
The 36-member group commenced practices on January 28 in three groups and at different time periods, as a precautionary health measure.