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Australia's Sports Minister still optimistic about hosting 2020 T20 World Cup despite COVID-19 crisis

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Australia so far has reported 7,289 coronavirus positive cases and the death toll stands at 102.

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Australia's Sports Minister Richard Colbeck on Friday (June 12) expressed his thoughts on how the country is still hopeful going ahead in hosting the T20 World Cup later this year.

The star-studded international tournament is scheduled to take place in Australia from October 18-November 15, however, due to the coronavirus outbreak acorss the globe the fate of the tournament hangs in the balance with travel restrictions throughout the world.

Colbeck, during his interaction with ANI, also added how the federal government is still considering hosting the tournament and the response to COVID-19 in the country has led to optimism about hosting the tournament.

"The Federal Government continues to work closely with the Local Organising Committee and state governments on planning for the Men's T20 World Cup. Our decisive response to the pandemic and the nation's ability to flatten the curve of the virus has resulted in the roll-out of a three-step framework for a COVID safe Australia. This has included the staged return of sport at all levels," Colbeck told ANI.

Nevertheless, the Minister also claimed that if the T20 WC actually happens as per schedule, then the spectator numbers may be considerably low due to the possible restrictions in different states and territories.

"It will not be without obvious precautions. Australian states and territories are responsible for implementing arrangements regarding the resumption of sport in each jurisdiction. This may result in restrictions on spectator numbers - but in what capacity is not yet clear."

"We remain committed to the implementation and support of measures to keep players and spectators safe. Any decision in relation to the tournament is ultimately a matter for the ICC," Colbeck said.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Australia so far has reported 7,289 coronavirus positive cases and the death toll stands at 102.

Speaking about the situation, the International Cricket Council (ICC) in a statement said: "The Board expressed its desire to continue to assess and evaluate the rapidly changing public health situation caused by COVID-19 working with key stakeholders including governments to explore how the events can be staged to protect the health and safety of everyone involved."

"This contingency planning process will evaluate health and safety, cricket, partner and host considerations ensuring any decision taken is in the best interests of the sport, its Members and fans," the statement added. 

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