Moeen Ali fails COVID-19 test again, rest of England squad negative

By Bipin Dani

England all-rounder Moeen Ali tested COVID-19 positive a second time, it is learnt.

According to sources, the second PCR tests were conducted for all players and support staff and the result of Ali's test was adverse, while all other players were negative. 

"Moeen Ali has been shifted to the Intermediate Care Centre and will most probably miss the first Test beginning at the Galle International Stadium on January 14," the medical person associated with the visiting team said. 

"Chris Woakes' result is negative but he was the first contact with Ali and is being isolated in the team hotel", the source further revealed. 

Back home in England, Ali's family is very disappointed with the news. 

"Unfortunately it has happened", Moeen's father, Munir Ali said. 

"He had no symptoms when he left from here. He was fine. May be at the airport or in the flight he may have got infected". 

"No, I don't think he will be able to play the first test. His isolation period will not finish before 13th January and so it will be difficult for him to play this Test," he further added.

In the meantime, the Sri Lankan players, who were not part of the squad in South Africa but chosen for the series against England have joined the bio-bubble, it is also learnt.