Southampton: The Jason Holder-Ben Stokes mix-up during the toss gave an insight into how players are still getting used to the fact that the new normal in cricket is to maintain social distancing. While players are still getting used to this, the strictness to follow protocols in wake of coronavirus pandemic seems to be admirable. Players and officials have been put under the bio-secure environment in order to successfully host a cricket series, the sports' first after 117-day long hiatus.
The #raisethebat cricket series involving England and West Indies not only marks the resumption of cricket but also gives a blueprint to others as to how to host matches during these unprecedented, uncertain times.
The players were allowed to enter the bubble only after testing negative for COVID-19, which can be seen as half the battle won.
According to a media organisation, seating arrangements in the canteen is made in such a way that only one player will sit on one table. This apart, payers are expected to wear masks at all times and constantly apply sanitizers on hands. Not to forget regular temperature checks for everyone inside the bubble.
Another great example of the social-distancing measure was seen during the toss as after the coin fell in favour of Stokes, he stood in front of a robot, telling the world that England will be batting first in his first outing as skipper.
Keeping in mind the iconic speech that Michael Holding gave during the rain break on the opening day of the Test, the moment also saw commentators standing a fair distance apart from each other while sending out a powerful message against racism.
The England and Wales Cricket Board and Cricket West Indies will always be remembered for bringing back the sport in troubled times like these but unfortunately, cricket's war over coronavirus has just begun.
