England vs West Indies: For first time in 143 years, Test match will witness no audience

This will be the first time in the 143-year history of Test cricket that a match will be played without spectators.

International cricket will be returning after four months where the first Test will be played on Wednesday at the Aegis Bowl Stadium in Southampton between England and West Indies from Wednesday (July 8).

While the game is resuming, players will have to follow the rules of social distancing. Many old rules will also change with this match.

Before the pandemic, a match between Australia and New Zealand was played on March 13 in Sydney. 

It was the first match of the three ODIs between the two sides. Australia defeated New Zealand by 71 runs in the match played at the empty stadium, however, after the match the series was canceled due to COVID-19.

Both the captains, Ben Stokes (interim England captain) and Jason Holder (West Indies) are ready with their team sheets.

It is the first series that will be played with the new restrictions in place. No crowds, a saliva ban, and limited celebrations.

The ICC has banned the use of saliva on the ball to counter the coronavirus threat. The international cricket body has confirmed interim changes to its playing regulations.

“If a player does apply saliva to the ball, the umpires will manage the situation with some leniency during an initial period of adjustment for the players, but subsequent instances will result in the team receiving a warning,” according to an ICC release.

“A team can be issued up to two warnings per innings but repeated use of saliva on the ball will result in a 5-run penalty to the batting side. Whenever saliva is applied to the ball, the umpires will be instructed to clean the ball before play recommences,” the release said.

1. High fives and hugs do not celebrate wicket-taking  

2. Do not give your cap, glasses, towel and other things to the umpire 

3. Cleaning hands regularly when in contact with the ball, do not touch the eyes, nose, and mouth

4. Saliva is not used to shine the ball. If saliva is applied even after twice warnings, then a penalty will be five points

5. The umpire must wear gloves when handling the ball

6. If the player is found to be Corona positive during the match, the Substitute (another player) will be replaced.  

7. Local umpires will be able to umpire, three DRS in place of two in Tests