ECB statement: Piloting spectator events

The Government today announced that a small number of sporting events will be used to pilot the safe return of spectators through late July and early August. This includes two men's county cricket friendly matches, including Surrey v Middlesex at the Kia Oval on July 26/27.

An ECB spokesperson said: "From the outset of this crisis, we’ve worked in partnership with the UK Government on the safe return of cricket, both at professional and recreational levels.

"The return of fans to stadia is the next step and we are pleased that this announcement allows cricket to be among the first pilot events. There is now a significant amount of work to carry out ahead of these pilots, and we will continue to work closely with the Government to assess what additional planning and safety measures are needed for supporters to be able to return safely to cricket grounds."