Kagiso Rabada reveals his 'bizarre' experience ahead of England series

Two members of the South African squad have tested positive for the virus since the squad assembled last week, and two other players had to go into isolation because of their close contact with one of the infected players.

Cape Town: Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada revealed on Monday that the South African cricket team is training in two groups to limit the risk of COVID-19 infections among players ahead of their home series against England.

Two members of the South African squad have tested positive for the virus since the squad assembled last week, and two other players had to go into isolation because of their close contact with one of the infected players.

"It's been quite bizarre," Rabada told an online press conference from the team hotel in Cape Town.

"We have to train in groups -– a group of non-contacts and a group of close contacts.

"It doesn't mean anyone is positive but we have to take that extra precaution."

However, Rabada didn't disclose how many players were in each group and their planned intra-squad matches on Saturday and Monday were cancelled, presumably to reduce the risk of infections.

The 25-year-old cricketer said more COVID-19 tests would be conducted "soon".

Despite the unusual training arrangements, Rabada said "training is going smoothly" ahead of the first Twenty20 international against England at Newlands on Friday.

"The team is doing well at sticking to strict rules."

England's white-ball tour of South Africa is starting on November 27 with the first match of three T20Is at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town.