Cricket’s back in July as England takes on the West Indies — but behind closed doors

CRICKET will return in July with the arrival of the West Indies team after a deal with government ministers.

Three Test matches between England and their Caribbean guests over May and June were postponed at the outbreak of the pandemic.

Cricket’s back in July as England takes on the West Indies but it’ll be played behind closed doors and televised

But the English Cricket Board has agreed plans for matches to be played behind closed doors and televised.

Cabinet ministers have also discussed movement restrictions for overseas sports stars.

SE can reveal Home Secretary Priti Patel has allowed modifications to the 14-day quarantine rule for the West Indies, with the whole travelling party staying in one hotel and training in a bubble.

That will mean the players are coaching staff do not mix with anyone else for the required two weeks.

Ms Patel has also waived the ban on foreign visas being issued for travel to the UK.

A source said: “We want to normal life to resume as much as possible where it is safe to do so, and that includes sport.

“So let’s get them playing cricket again.”

The ECB, which will announce revised Test dates soon, said England squad training was now able to resume.

Three Test matches between England and their Caribbean guests over May and June were postponed at the outbreak of the pandemic