The Gloucestershire vs Northamptonshire cricket match in the Bob Willis trophy on Sunday was suspended at lunch because a positive coronavirus case was detected in the middle of the match.
It was discovered just before lunch that a Northamptonshire player had tested positive for COVID-19, with both teams and the ECB immediately abandoning the game to protect player welfare.
The player involved was not part of the travelling squad to the match at the Bristol County Ground but the match was still called off straight away.
The Gloucester vs Northamptonshire match in the Bob Willis trophy on Sunday was suspended as a Northants player tested positive for coronavirus
Both sides did not reappear after lunch at the Bristol County Ground after just one session
Fans were stunned as both sets of players did not return after lunch, with no issues with the weather or bad light.
Close of play was declared just after 3pm on Sunday afternoon and the England and a statement from both sides was made surrounding the early close.
The statement read: 'In the interests of player welfare, it has been agreed between Gloucestershire, Northamptonshire and the England & Wales Cricket Board that the Bob Willis Trophy match, currently being played at the Bristol County Ground, has been abandoned.
'Just before lunch of the first session of play, it came to light that a member of the Northamptonshire playing squad has tested positive for COVID-19.
The Northamptonshire player was not part of the travelling squad to the match but the ECB and both sides called the game off to protect player welfare
'Although the player was not part of the group that travelled with the squad to Bristol (and has been self-isolating at home), further members of the Northamptonshire squad have been in contact with the player within 48 hours of the player developing COVID-19 symptoms.
'Gloucestershire, Northamptonshire and the ECB are unified in the belief that player welfare is paramount and that no risks should be taken with the health and safety of the players, officials and administrators involved in this match.
'The match has now been abandoned and the Northamptonshire squad will return home to Northamptonshire today.'
Gloucestershire were 66/6 when the players went off for lunch after a frantic opening session.
