Bangladesh spin coach Herath tests positive for Covid-19

Bangladesh's spin bowling coach Rangana Herath, currently on tour in New Zealand with the Test squad, has tested Covid-19 positive on Wednesday, but is believed to have only "mild symptoms."

Eight other Bangladesh players have been sent into isolation after another person on their Christchurch-bound aircraft also tested positive.

The rest of the squad went into training Lincoln on Thursday, but were are all asked to mandatorily complete a three-day room quarantine once again by the New Zealand health authorities because of their proximity to Herath on the flight.

It's the second time they will have to quarantine since arriving on December 10. The entire contingent was supposed to be in managed isolation, which included gym sessions from December 14. But that isn't the case anymore.

"We're maintaining the existing protocol," BCB CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury told the Dhaka-based The Daily Star. "We will get a clear picture tomorrow (December 17) as they have taken a few samples today and the results are due. Since the players are isolated, hopefully no other complications will arise. This is part of the new reality."

There was reportedly concern within the Bangladesh team but they were feeling better after all but Herath tested negative again on Thursday. But the latest directive from the local health authority means that the visitors' preparation will be delayed by another three days.

Bangladesh are scheduled to play two practice matches before the first Test in Tauranga that starts on January 1.