Australian officials released a statement explaining that despite McGrath testing positive and having mild symptoms, she was allowed to play after consultation with team and match officials and the Commonwealth Games Federation Clinical Panel on Results Analysis.
“McGrath presented to team management with mild symptoms on Sunday before returning a positive test result,” Australia’s Commonwealth Games (CGA) said. Approve her for the finals.
“In consultation with the CGF (Commonwealth Games Federation) and the ICC, Cricket Australia’s medical staff have implemented a comprehensive set of protocols that will be followed throughout matches and post-match activities to minimise transmission to all players and Risk to officials.
“The CGA has developed a comprehensive COVID-19 risk mitigation strategy for the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games with testing protocols that go beyond the requirements of the Birmingham 2022 Organizing Committee.”
The CGA did not outline the existing agreement and would not comment further.
“I think it’s handled really well from an Australian point of view,” said Australian batsman Beth Mooney, with her gold medal hanging around her neck. “Having made the protocol and making sure everyone on the team was happy with her game, they did all the right things.
“Obviously it gets a little hairy in there when throwing, but I don’t think it makes a difference if someone’s playing and they have a cold or the flu.
“From my point of view, the right decision was made, we just went out and played.
“It’s out of our control, it’s made by those who get paid for making these decisions.”
McGrath did not line up with her teammates during the national anthem. However, she came out to bat without a mask.
She was Australia’s top scorer reaching the final at Birmingham, but she was eliminated by just four goals against India by two.
When McGrath left the field, she did not return to the dugout. She is separated from her teammates.
“It’s unusual, but our doctor is on tour and we’re just listening to what she has to say,” said Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner. “She said she was playing safe and obviously we didn’t get along with her, so we all felt we were safe enough there.
“It’s just one of those things that was destined to happen to someone in this game, unfortunately for her.”
