Worcestershire CCC fans forced to wait for New Road return

The original date of June 21 for a lifting of all restrictions across the country has been doubted since the arrival of the delta variant of coronavirus, which has seen a spike in cases.

Stadiums were preparing to host a much larger majority of spectators as of June 21 but after a month-long extension was announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday evening.

The hope for Worcestershire was that the remaining three home Vitality Blast fixtures would be played out in front of a “packed out” New Road but it will remain at a restricted number of members, as has been the case since mid-April.

Worcestershire CCC chairman Fanos Hira expressed his disappointment at the news.

“It is undoubtedly disappointing that we cannot host our final three Vitality Blast fixtures in front of a packed New Road crowd,” he said.

“Everyone hugely appreciates the tremendous support of members and supporters during these difficult times, and we appreciate your patience whilst we go undertake this process.

“It is important as members if you are successful in the ballot if you cannot make it, for whatever reason, that you let us know as soon as possible. Given many of our fixtures were sold out post 21 June, there is a huge waiting list that our membership can easily fulfil.

“Staff at Worcestershire CCC are having to adapt to a continuously changing and challenging landscape. I am very grateful to them for their tireless efforts.”

Those fans who have pre-purchased a ticket for the three remaining Blast fixtures can choose to receive a full refund or roll their ticket over to a fixture later in 2021.

Or ticket holders can choose to receive an e-voucher to the same value as tickets purchased for use on the Club’s online Club Shop or for future ticket and membership purchases.

Rapids host Yorkshire Vikings today and then the Steelbacks on Friday. Pic: Paul France/Write Angle Media