The final of the ICC World Test Championship between India and New Zealand will be held in biosecurity bubbles at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton.
The decision, taken by the ICC Board, follows discussions with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) where a range of options were considered to ensure the safe start of the inaugural final. with the potential impact of COVID-19 reduced for all involved.
In selecting The Hampshire Bowl, the ICC drew on the ECB’s experience in delivering a full summer of biosafety international cricket in 2020. The center provides play and training facilities at world class, providing the best environment for both teams to prepare. While the on-site premises will significantly reduce the risk surrounding COVID-19 transmission and provide better protection for the health and safety of all those involved in the delivery of the final circuit.
If the UK government’s step-by-step discount on COVID-19 locking measures goes ahead as expected, it is expected that a small number of fans will be allowed into the Hampshire Bowl to see the final round. Fans can register their interest for tickets here.
New Zealand were the first team to make the final of the ICC World Test and India joined them after a win over England which ended on Saturday.
Geoff Allardice, ICC General Manager, Cricket He said: “The final of the ICC World Test is the highest event in the Test calendar and is set to be a week-long celebration of the oldest type of game. A form that is rooted in tradition and reflects the best that the game has to offer. I would also like to congratulate India and New Zealand for being a part of history by reaching the first final.
“We are confident that in choosing the Hampshire Bowl, we have given ourselves the best opportunity to deliver the final while keeping everyone safe, healthy and engaged. giving fans the chance to watch the two best Test teams in the world. -head for the right to declare themselves as ICC World Test Winners.
“I would like to thank the ECB for their guidance and advice so that we can make this decision, which will give us the best chance of delivering a safe World Test Championship Final. and successful. ”
Tom Harrison, Chief Executive, England and Wales Cricket Board We said: “We are delighted that the ICC has chosen to host the first Final of the World Test at the Hampshire Bowl.
“As the world’s first fully secure cricket ground, it has demonstrated its ability to deliver international matches to the highest standards, even against the backdrop of a global pandemic. I am sure the end of the ICC World Test Tournament will be an amazing event. ”
Rod Bransgrove, Hampshire Cricket Chairman, he said: “We are honored and delighted that the Hampshire Bowl has been named as the host venue for the ICC World Test Final. I would like to thank the ICC for this great display of confidence in our abilities and the ECB for its great support to the center as a guest on the largest Test Match event ever held.
“I am confident that our great pride in bringing this fixture to Hampshire will be shared by all our dedicated staff, supporters and supporters as well as our com earnest partners, Eastleigh Town Council. We will do everything in our power to ensure that the first Final of the ICC World Test Championship is a safe, engaging and successful event for all. ”