Bangladesh T20I captain Mahmudullah Riyad tests positive for Covid-19

Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah Riyad, who was to fly out to Pakistan along with compatriot Tamim Iqbal later this week, has tested positive for Covid-19.

Mahmudullah Riyad had been roped in by the PSL franchise Multan Sultans to replace England all-rounder Moeen Ali for the play-offs starting Nov 15.

The Pakistan Super League 2020 that was being played in March this year, had to be abandoned after the completion of the group stage matches as the Covid-19 pandemic began to grip across the world.

The Pakistan Cricket Board had later announced that the play-offs would take place after the end of IPL 2020, and the first play-off match is scheduled for November 14, where Multan Sultans take on Karachi Kings.

Mahmudullah, who is also the Bangladesh T20I captain, said that he had tested positive on November 6 and got another test done just to be sure and the



result of that test also turned out to be positive. He has isolated himself in a separate room at his house.

“I was surprised with a positive result from my Covid test, on November 6. I didn't have fever or any other symptoms other than a bit of cold. Nothing more than that. I got tested for a second time yesterday, and that also came out as positive. I am now taking rest in a separate room,” Mahmudullah told ESPNcricinfo.

The batsman also added that he was disappointed to miss the chance to play in PSL, but expressed hope that he would be fit to play in the Bangabandhu T20 Cup, that will be played later in the month.

"It is disappointing to miss the chance to play in the PSL. It is a competitive tournament. It was a good opportunity to play a couple of matches there. I am now looking forward to getting well soon and try to participate in our Bangabandhu T20 Cup,” he added.