The UK authorities have sanctioned to allow 18000 spectators for the first three days of each Test in Edgbaston between England and New Zealand starting in June. Earlier it was decided that only 25 per cent of ground capacity will be allowed keeping in mind the COVID-19 restrictions. However, in what may feel like a major step towards restoration to normal, Warwickshire declared on Wednesday that over 70 per cent of spectatorship will be permitted.
England has played their entire 2020 cricket behind closed doors with no spectators. the upcoming series against New Zealand will be played in front under normal conditions for the first time since 2019.
“This is great news, people have been through a lot over the last year and more. The chance to return to cricket with friends and family will feel like a giant step back towards normality. It really does give us hope that we are getting through this. I think the entire game will feel like a celebration.”Becky Fairlie-Clarke, of the Cricket Supporters’ Association, told ESPNcricinfo
However, the first Test match of the series starting from June 2 in Lord’s will have no such spectatorship. It will be played in front of a 25 per cent capacity of approximately 7,500 viewers a day.
There were around 20000 spectators at the Edgbaston for the FA Cup final followed by an audience of 1000 at the World Snooker Championship final. This gave Edgbaston leverage and a decision to allow a large portion of spectators by observing its past successful trials.
