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Glenn McGrath cops cruel Covid blow ahead of pink Ashes Test

Glenn McGrath, pictured here with partner Sarah Leonardi at the SCG.
Glenn McGrath with partner Sarah Leonardi at the SCG. Image: Getty

Aussie cricket legend Glenn McGrath is in danger of missing the traditional pink SCG Test after testing positive for Covid-19.

McGrath tested positive for the virus on Sunday, just three days before the start of the fourth Ashes Test in Sydney.

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It is a cruel blow for the Aussie legend, with the Sydney Test turning pink every year to raise money for the McGrath Foundation.

McGrath set up the foundation after the death of wife Jane in 2008 from breast cancer.

The former fast bowler has helped turn Australia's year-opening Test into a fundraising drive to support those with breast cancer and pay tribute to his late wife.

There is hope that McGrath will return a negative test in time to attend day three of the Test, now known as Jane McGrath Day.

The 51-year-old said on Sunday that he is isolating at home and feels well.

The 563-Test wicket legend will have a virtual presence at the ground on Monday, when both sides are presented with their baggy pink caps.

Glenn McGrath, pictured here presenting pink caps on Jane McGrath Day during the third Test between Australia and New Zealand at the SCG in 2020.
Glenn McGrath presents pink caps on Jane McGrath Day during the third Test between Australia and New Zealand at the SCG in 2020. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

However it would be a devastating blow if he was forced to miss the Test entirely.

"Glenn has had a PCR test which unfortunately returned a positive result," McGrath Foundation chief executive Holly Masters said.

"We wish Glenn and his family good health.

"We are grateful to our partners at Cricket Australia and the SCG.

"As well as the England cricket team and the broadcasters for their ongoing support for the Pink Test and look forward to still making this the 'pinkest' Ashes."

The McGrath Foundation funds nurses to help support those with breast cancer.

England rocked by Covid case at training session

Meanwhile, England's Ashes nightmare went from bad to worse on Sunday with a positive Covid case reportedly disrupting a training session.

The tourists were training at the SCG when a net bowler reportedly received word that he had tested positive.

It left England without any net bowlers because they were all deemed close contacts.

Bharat Sundaresan of CrizBuzz broke the news on Twitter, saying one the batters described the drama as a “shambles”.

Aussie batter Travis Head is already out of the match after testing positive for Covid, as is match referee and former Aussie player David Boon.

England coach Chris Silverwood will also miss the Test after a family member tested positive.

with AAP

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