'Unique Experience,' remarks Ish Sodhi after playing 1st ODI against NZ in empty stadium

As Australia defeated New Zealand in first ODI at a completely empty Sydney Cricket Ground amid coronavirus scare, Kiwi spinner Ish Sodhi stated that it was a very 'unique experience' playing without any crowd. spinner remarked that it was 'very different' as every time anyone tried to speak to a fielder, voice echoed around ground. Australia registered a comprehensive 71-run victory in first ODI of three-match series on Friday.

Australia draw first blood

Owing to significant contributions from skipper Aaron Finch, David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne, Australia put up a target of 259 for New Zealand to chase. Despite intent shown by visitors, in beginning, New Zealand failed to get going in match as y kept losing wickets in quick intervals. Mitchel Marsh, who was adjudged as Man of Match, picked 3 wickets off his 7 overs giving away just 29 runs. Pat Cummins also bagged 3 wickets while Hazlewood and Adam Zampa scalped two wickets each. Martin Guptill top-scored for New Zealand with his innings of 40 runs. 

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match also witnessed Australia's Kane Richardson being tested for Coronavirus. After showing early symptoms of being infected with virus, player was soon quarantine and tested. However, he tested negative and soon returned to team. match was also played behind closed doors to avoid mass garings and to contain virus from spreading. 

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Coronavirus impacts cricket

Apart from ongoing ‘Aus vs NZ’ series, worldwide panic caused by Coronavirus has already impacted many sporting events around globe. much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL 2020) season has been postponed with a launch date of April 15 instead of earlier planned March 29. On Friday, England Cricket Board (ECB) also postponed England's tour of Sri Lanka amid virus scare. remainder of ODI series between South Africa and India has also been called off amid vel Coronavirus scare.

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Im Credits: ICC/AP