The WBBL has been thrown into chaos with a COVID-19 case in Tasmania putting in doubt several matches on the opening weekend in Hobart as the state’s south enters a three-day lockdown.
Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein announced the lockdown would run from 6pm Friday until 6pm Monday, subject to health advice, after a COVID-positive man escaped hotel quarantine in Hobart and was infectious in the community.
But the lockdown means if the four matches scheduled to be played on Saturday and Sunday are played in Hobart, it will be behind closed doors.
"We're currently working through it," said Gutwein.
"Bearing in mind there are national and international matters to consider here in terms of the broadcast, if they do go ahead they would go ahead with no crowd and with the players remaining in a bubble."
Cricket Australia released their own statement about the situation, intimating the hope that matches will still be able to go ahead in the Apple Isle.
"The health and safety of our players, staff, match officials and partners, along with that of the wider community, remains our top priority," the CA statement said.
"We are currently working with the Tasmanian Government on options for the upcoming Weber WBBL|07 matches at Blundstone Arena, Hobart this weekend.
"All players, staff and match officials in Tasmania for the Weber WBBL have received COVID-19 vaccinations and received the required negative COVID-19 test results. All are currently participating in training at Blundstone Arena or at team hotels.
"The League will provide further updates in due course."
The disruption comes a day after the competition launched with the Sydney Sixers’ six-wicket win over the Melbourne Stars.
Cricket Australia moved the opening stage of the WBBL to Tasmania because of the difficulty in holding matches in NSW and Victoria where COVID-19 case numbers are much higher than other states and the resulting logistical issue in crossing state borders.
Perth Scorchers were due to fly to Hobart today ahead of their first match on Sunday but have delayed their travel by 24 hours while they monitor the unfolding situation.
The first nine matches have been scheduled to take place in Hobart before the tournament moves to Launceston with later matches also being played in Perth, Adelaide and Mackay.
