Northamptonshire’s touring party in Singapore will return to the UK earlier than originally planned in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The joint decision by Club officials and the playing group is focused on a desire for all to be with their families.
The squad will now fly back to the UK on rearranged flights, a couple of days before the original end date for the tour.
Northamptonshire Chief Executive Ray Payne was clear that this was a ‘family comes first’ situation.
“It’s important to understand that this isn’t a case of us wanting to get the first available flight out of Singapore.” Payne said.
“It’s about the worsening situation at home and people being concerned about their families and wanting to be with them. It’s a very safe environment here but it’s understandable, there’s a lot of players with young families in our squad and right now that’s what’s most important.”
Despite the premature end, Payne had nothing but praise for the club’s ground-breaking tour.
“Singapore Cricket Club have been a great host. The precautions they’ve taken here are amazing, their hospitality, facilities and how SCC have looked after us is just incredible.”
“We’re all pretty dispirited to be leaving actually but we believe it’s the right decision. We’re looking forward to returning next year.”