February 9, 2022 2
Smriti Mandhana is still out with an extended MIQ and will miss the T20I against New Zealand; she is doubtful to play the first ODI. Smriti Mandhana, India’s opening batswoman, was unable to play in the one-off T20 International; against New Zealand on Wednesday due to an extended; quarantine in Christchurch with two other players, putting her in danger for the forthcoming first ODI. Meghana Singh and Renuka Singh, together with Mandhana, have been in Managed Isolation; and Quarantine (MIQ) since their arrival, and it is unclear why their stay has been extended. On Saturday, the maiden One-Day International will be played here. “The Progressed Zealand government has asked Smriti, Meghana Singh, and Renuka Singh; to be in a required MIQ,” hitter Yastika Bhatia said after India’s 18-run; victory in the one-off T20I here on Wednesday. On their way to Cutting edge Zealand, the Indian group underwent a 10-day MIQ in Christchurch. “That’s all we can say right now,” Bhatia said of the issue; declining to indicate when the three players will be available to play. Before leaving for New Zealand on January 24, the Indian team had to go through; a week of strict quarantine in Mumbai. All of India’s fixtures, including a T20I and five ODIs; were moved to Queenstown to lessen the chance of a COVID-19 epidemic. The bilateral series is crucial for India as it prepares for the 50-over World Cup; which will be held in New Zealand in March and April. ...