The inauguration of The Hundred competition could well be postponed until 2021 as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to derail the English Cricket Board’s preparation for their summer cricket season.

In an interview with British publication the Guardian, chief executive Tom Harrison hinted at a possible delay of the event in what he strongly views as one of the biggest challenges the board has faced in its history.

‘It is at times like this when you go back to what is really important. We are going to have county fans who won’t have seen any cricket, players sitting around. All of our decisions are based on those factors.’

READ – Faul: Mzansi Super League will take place

Harrison announced a rescue package worth £60 million for local cricket in England of which £40m will immediately be made available to counties and clubs struggling with income. The extra £20m will soon be handed out as grants and loans to recreational clubs around the country.

The possibility, though, remains for matches to be staged behind closed doors as the ECB continues to look at ways to host matches, while assuring the safety of the cricketing public and staff.

With the domestic seasons set to start at the end of May, the English national team will face the West Indies, Australia and Pakistan on home turf across all three formats.

No update has yet been given if these scheduled fixtures could be affected by postponement or possible cancellation due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Photo: Getty Images