England vs New Zealand: Edgbaston to welcome 18,000 fans as virus rules eased

Around 18,000 spectators will be able to attend each of the first three days of the Edgbaston Test between England and New Zealand. Spectators only need to wear masks when moving around inside the ground.

The second Test at Edgbaston between hosts England and New Zealand will be played in front of 18,000 fans. It is set to be included in the UK government’s second round of trials for the return of crowds. It was feared that the Edbaston Test, which starts on June 10, would see spectator numbers limited to 25 per cent of ground capacity because of Covid-19 restrictions. But, Warwickshire announced on Wednesday that 70 per cent capacity will be admitted. To gain entry to the ground in Birmingham, each ticket holder will need to present a negative lateral flow test, taken within the preceeding 24 hours. The first three days of the match were effectively sold out.