USA vs Ireland: 1st ODI called off due to Coronavirus scare

The coronavirus pandemic continues to cause havoc in international cricket even in 2021. The first ODI between USA and Ireland at Lauderhill, Florida, scheduled on December 26 has been called off due to one umpire testing positive for COVID-19. In a statement by Cricket USA, it stated that one umpire had tested positive for coronavirus during the testing as per the protocols. The other three umpires were deemed close contacts and thus were placed in isolation.

With no umpires to officiate the match, the first ODI was called off. There will be an alternative group of officials who might be appointed in case the situation does not improve. The United States of America registered 197,000 cases of coronavirus in the last 24 hours. Florida alone accounted for 31,683 cases, the second-most behind New York.

USA vs Ireland Series Gripping for fans

The first two matches of the USA vs Ireland series have been gripping. The first T20I saw the USA create history by winning against Ireland by 26 runs. It was their first win against a Test-playing nation in any format. In the second match, Ireland avoided humiliation by winning the match and leveling the series. Lochran Tucker was the star with 84 as Ireland and USA drew the T20I series 1-1.

Read | Full list of 16 teams squads in ICC World T20 2021

The second and third ODIs will be played on December 28 and 30 at Lauderhill. The statement by USA cricket also assured the fans that tickets will be refunded. “USA Cricket would like to thank all fans and supporters for their continued support and understanding. All ticket holders for the first One-Day International on December 26th may re-use their tickets for any additional match in the series. Alternatively, if you are unable to re-use your tickets, please send an email with your proof of purchase to [email protected] and your full fee will be refunded within seven working days,” the statement said.

Ireland aim to dominate

The Twenty20 Internationals proved to be a close contest between USA and Ireland. But, in the ODIs, Ireland might hold a slight edge. The side has qualified for 2007, 2011, and 2015 World Cups, creating some memorable moments. In 2007, they knocked Pakistan out in the first round that was held in the West Indies. During the 2011 and 2015 events, they registered memorable wins against England and West Indies, further enhancing their credentials.

Ireland did not qualify for the 2019 ICC World Cup but they entered an elite club along with Afghanistan as they became the new Test-playing nations. In 2024, with the USA and West Indies hosting the ICC World T20, it gives both Ireland and the USA the chance to showcase their mettle on the international stage. For the USA, it will be the first time that they potentially might play an ICC event.