T20 World Cup 2022: AUS vs ENG: Mathew Wade tests COVID positive ahead of England clash

Melbourne: Australia's preparations for their crucial ICC T20 World Cup clash against arch-rival England in Melbourne on Friday have received a blow with news that veteran wicket-keeper Matthew Wade has been struck down with Covid.

Wade was diagnosed with Covid on Wednesday night, although the 34-year-old only has minor symptoms and is still expected to take his place in Australia's team that will take on England at the MCG.

Team-mate Adam Zampa has been battling minor Covid symptoms earlier this week and the spinner sat out Australia's seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Perth on Tuesday.

Zampa is expected to return to Australia's XI for their match against England at the MCG and Wade is likely to join him in the side should his symptoms remain minor.

Experienced all-rounder Glenn Maxwell spent some time practicing with the gloves on as Australia trained inside on a wet Melbourne day on Thursday as the reigning champions no longer have a back-up wicket-keeper in their 15-player squad.

Josh Inglis was initially in the squad, but he was replaced by all-rounder Cameron Green when he injured his hand while playing golf on the eve of the tournament.

Australia currently sit in fifth place on the Group 1 standings at the T20 World Cup and need a victory against England to remain in touch with the teams chasing a semi-final berth at the event. (UNI)