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Moeen Ali tests positive for COVID-19 ahead of Sri Lanka tests

England all-rounder Moeen Ali has tested positive for COVID-19 upon arriving in Sri Lanka and will self-isolate for 10 days, as will fast bowler Chris Woakes who was deemed a possible close contact, England's cricket board said on Monday (4).

England are in Sri Lanka for a two-match test series that begins on Jan. 14, with both matches being played in Galle.


The squad was tested on arrival at the airport in Hambantota and Ali is likely to miss the first test as Sri Lanka's government protocols require the 33-year-old to quarantine for 10 days.

"Chris Woakes has been deemed as a possible close contact, and he will observe a period of self-isolation and further testing," the ECB added.

"The touring party will be PCR tested for a second time on Tuesday morning. At this stage, the team will train for the first time on Wednesday."

The two-match series in Sri Lanka is followed by four tests in India in February and March.

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England and Wales record one pub a day closed in 2025 as taxes and rising costs bite

Nearly 2,000 pubs have disappeared over the past five years

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England and Wales record one pub a day closed in 2025 as taxes and rising costs bite

Highlights

  • 366 pubs permanently closed across England and Wales during 2025, averaging one per day.
  • Total pub count falls to 38,623 from 38,989, with nearly 2,000 lost over past five years.
  • Industry warns business rates recalculation in April 2026 will worsen crisis.

One pub disappeared every day across England and Wales during 2025, as sustained cost pressures continued to devastate the hospitality sector, according to analysis of government statistics.

A total of 366 pubs were demolished or converted for other uses over the year to December, with the overall number falling to 38,623 from 38,989 a year earlier. The figures, analysed by tax specialists at Ryan, include vacant premises being offered to let.

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