Fans will no longer be allowed to attend Bob Willis Trophy fixtures this weekend, following announcements by the UK government on lockdown restrictions.

The Kia Oval and Edgbaston were the two cricketing venues set to take part in the government’s pilot scheme to test the return of spectators to sporting events.

Both venues were able to welcome up to 1,000 fans for warm-up games earlier this month, and the scheme was set to be expanded this weekend for the opening round of the Bob Willis Trophy, with up to 2,500 fans allowed at each of the two grounds for the first two days of the fixtures. Fans will no longer be allowed to attend either venue after the UK government announces on Friday its decision to postpone the easing of lockdown restrictions following a rise in coronavirus infections.

An ECB statement on the news read: “We understand this is disappointing for supporters who have waited a long time to see their clubs in action and were looking forward to attending pilot events at the Kia Oval and Edgbaston this weekend.

“However, we understand the reasons the Government has made this decision, and remain ready to work with them to ensure supporters can safely return to stadiums when Government advice allows.

“We are pleased the Bob Willis Trophy will still begin this weekend behind closed doors, and fans will be able to watch their teams in action through the online streams being provided.”